Shivraj Singh Chouhan Emphasises Agriculture and Animal Husbandry's Vital Role in India's Economic Future

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasised the crucial role of agriculture and animal husbandry in India's economic growth. He stated that these sectors are vital as India aims to become the world's third-largest economy soon. Chouhan advocated for crop diversification, suggesting that farming fruits, flowers, medicinal plants, agroforestry, and fisheries could boost farmers' income.

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During his visit to the International Gita Festival in Kurukshetra, Chouhan engaged with scientists, sugarcane farmers, and Lakhpati Didis at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) in Karnal, Haryana. He reiterated that agriculture is the backbone of India's economy and highlighted the Prime Minister's commitment to doubling farmers' income.

Focus on Crop Diversification

Chouhan stressed the need for increased production through quality seeds and diversification beyond traditional farming. He mentioned that various types of farming such as fruits, flowers, medicinal plants, agroforestry, animal husbandry, beekeeping, and fisheries should be promoted. "Many efforts will have to be made to increase income," he said.

The minister praised NDRI's work in agriculture and dairy sectors. He expressed pride in their achievements and encouraged further advancements in milk production using new technology. "We have to make India a food basket and also make India the largest producer of milk," he added.

Technological Advancements in Agriculture

Chouhan highlighted the importance of research and technology in advancing agriculture. He recalled former Prime Ministers Lal Bahadur Shastri's slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" and Atal Bihari Vajpayee's addition of "Jai Vigyan." Prime Minister Narendra Modi further added "Jai Anusandhan," underscoring the significance of research.

During his visit to NDRI, Chouhan observed cloned and gene-edited dairy animals. He reviewed research programmes and appreciated progress in animal cloning, gene editing, and dissemination of quality germplasm to dairy farmers. He also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing innovative technologies from ICAR institutes in Karnal.

Empowering Rural Communities

Chouhan visited Sultanpur village in Karnal to review development initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G). He praised the village as a model for development and appreciated efforts made there. Reflecting on his tenure as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, he mentioned introducing the Ladli Lakshmi scheme for women's empowerment.

The minister interacted with entrepreneurs who adopted NDRI technologies and national awardee farmers. He acknowledged women-oriented self-help groups like Lakhpati Didis and Drone Didis for driving social change in rural areas. Chouhan noted that dairying contributes around 4.1% to national GDP and urged scientists to enhance dairy productivity.

Infrastructure Development

Chouhan laid the foundation stone for a boys' hostel worth over Rs 10 crores at NDRI. He interacted with students during this event. Speaking to reporters later, he expressed pride in ICAR-NDRI's achievements, including developing a climate-resistant wheat variety.

The minister remarked on Haryana's progress in procuring 24 crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP), promoting crop diversification, and preventing stubble burning. He emphasised that increasing farmers' income requires faster progress in sectors like animal husbandry.

Chouhan concluded by congratulating NDRI for its revolutionary work in milk production through technology. "Using technology, NDRI is bringing a revolution in milk production," he stated.