How the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' is Transforming Indian Agriculture

Empowering Farmers Through Agricultural Initiatives

Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' offers a significant chance for farmers nationwide to engage with agricultural scientists and clarify their queries during the campaign.

This statement was made in a video message presented at an event hosted by the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, which was attended by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, scientists, and farmers.

Discussing the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan', launched on May 29, Modi noted that farmers in 700 districts will have the opportunity to seek guidance as they prepare for kharif crop cultivation with the arrival of the monsoon. He mentioned that over 2,000 teams of agricultural scientists and experts will be visiting villages from May 29 to June 12, aligning with his vision of 'Lab to Land' and the goal of a developed India.

Modi stated that these scientists and experts will come equipped with essential data and information to assist farmers. He expressed confidence that this initiative would greatly benefit farmers before they commence their cultivation activities, urging scientists to approach the campaign with a mission-oriented mindset to impart modern agricultural knowledge.

"I want to convey to the scientists and staff that this mission is of great importance. The task you are undertaking is not merely a government duty; it is a service to the nation. You must address the intellectual curiosity of farmers and document their valuable feedback," Modi remarked, asserting that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan will pave the way for significant advancements for Indian farmers.

Highlighting the advancements made in agriculture over the past decade, Modi stressed the importance of ensuring that these successes reach the farmers directly. He mentioned efforts to enhance farmers' incomes, bolster the agricultural economy, boost food grain production, tackle climate change, and modernize farming practices. "These insights must now be shared with the farmers," he stated.

The Prime Minister also encouraged farmers to explore solar panel installations in their fields, engage in bee farming as part of the sweet revolution, understand the effects of chemical and pesticide usage, and convert agricultural waste into valuable resources.

"Farmers should be educated on the optimal cultivation of 'Sree Anna' for improved yields, as well as their inclusion in the Govardhan Yojana and other initiatives," he added.

Describing the campaign as an 'aspiration initiative' by the Indian government, Modi aimed to enlighten farmers about the ongoing transformations in the agricultural sector and the pursuit of 'Viksit Bharat' through 'Viksit Krishi'. He noted that the agricultural market is rapidly evolving alongside changing consumer priorities.

While agriculture falls under state jurisdiction within the federal framework, Modi emphasized the necessity for farmers to stay informed about sectoral changes to facilitate progress.