Increase wheat and barley production, reduce expenses, generate bio-enriched wheat, and advocate for balanced fertilisers and integrated farming strategies: statements made by Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has been advocating for a shift towards integrated farming systems, particularly for small and marginal farmers in India. This approach encourages the combination of crop cultivation with animal husbandry, fisheries, beekeeping, and horticulture.
In a recent speech, Chouhan called for boosting the production of pulses and oilseeds to reduce the country's reliance on imports. He also emphasized tackling the adverse effects of unbalanced fertilizer use on soil health, urging farmers to adopt advanced technologies and sustainable practices like stubble management.
The Minister has been vocal about the need to reduce input costs in farming. He mentioned strict government actions against companies selling substandard or counterfeit agrochemicals, and confirmed that licenses of such companies are being revoked and legal steps are being taken.
Chouhan also highlighted the nutritional and medicinal value of traditional grains such as barley and urged citizens to support indigenous products. He seeks to promote bio-fortified wheat varieties and has inaugurated the 64th All India Wheat and Barley Research Workers' Workshop at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University in Gwalior.
During the workshop, Chouhan paid homage to renowned agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan and reaffirmed that the conference is a critical platform for generating practical solutions. He emphasized the importance of enhancing per-hectare productivity to match international standards.
In a significant development, there has been a significant growth in wheat production in India over the past decade, with an increase from 86.5 million tonnes to 117.5 million tonnes. Chouhan also sought a GI tag for MP's Basmati rice during a recent meeting.
The next lecture by Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on improving agricultural research is scheduled for September 15, 2025, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Chouhan's initiatives aim to empower farmers, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure food security in India.
