"ICAR Group devises safeguarding measures for 'Nanjangud Rasabale' Bananas; Chauhan advocates comprehensive farming across Karnataka"

Union Agriculture Minister, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, visited Bengaluru on August 29, 2025. During his visit, Chauhan reviewed the activities of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutes and ICAR's National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, which is developing biological pest control technologies.

Chauhan emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding farmers' interests, improving their income, and ensuring self-reliance in agriculture and livestock production. He advocated for diversified farming practices, such as cultivating pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, flowers, and medicinal plants, alongside animal husbandry.

The minister credited the Prime Minister for taking bold decisions that protect national interests and farmers' welfare. He highlighted the success of these models in controlling diseases like foot and mouth disease. Chauhan also expressed concern about diseases in animal husbandry and the work of ICAR's National Animal Epidemiology and Informatics Institute in creating disease forecasting models with 90% accuracy.

During his visit, Chauhan interacted with farmers, livestock rearers, startup entrepreneurs, scientists, and other stakeholders. He encouraged farmers to adopt mixed farming models that include crops like coconut, papaya, banana, and ginger.

Chauhan introduced a special variety of banana, 'Nanjangud Rasabale', known for its unique taste and low sugar content, suitable for diabetic patients. However, he expressed concern about a virus threatening this variety and announced a special team of agricultural scientists to protect it.

The minister also emphasized the importance of preserving traditional varieties like 'Nanjangud Rasabale' for both farmers' income and consumer health benefits. He warned against the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides and emphasized the need for eco-friendly pest management practices, particularly in crops like Bt cotton.

The Union Agriculture Ministry will showcase organic produce from North-East India at BioFach India 2025. Chauhan concluded that the efforts of ICAR institutes, supported by government initiatives, will create a strong foundation for India's self-reliant and farmer-friendly agricultural future. He assured that the government will never compromise on the interests of farmers, livestock keepers, fishermen, and rural communities.

"ICAR Group devises safeguarding measures for 'Nanjangud Rasabale' Bananas; Chauhan advocates comprehensive farming across Karnataka"