Delhi farmers to play a key role in building Atmanirbhar Bharat: Shivraj Singh

Delhi farmers to play a key role in building Atmanirbhar Bharat: Shivraj Singh

As part of the ongoing Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Tigipur village on the outskirts of Delhi on Wednesday. The visit aimed to engage directly with farmers, promote the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, and gather ground-level feedback for shaping future agricultural policies.

Chouhan, accompanied by Secretary (DARE) and ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat and senior officials, participated in a Kisan Chaupal where he interacted with farmers on key issues like seed production, polyhouse farming, and high-value crop cultivation. He lauded the innovative efforts of local farmers and witnessed a live drone demonstration for pesticide and nutrient application.

Emphasizing the importance of field-based research, Chouhan stated that scientists would now work closely with farmers to address real-time agricultural challenges. He noted that over the last 15 days, 2,170 ICAR teams had engaged with nearly 1.08 crore farmers nationwide.

Highlighting concerns over declining soil fertility, Chouhan urged farmers to utilize Soil Health Cards and adopt sustainable farming practices. He also outlined the government’s focus on crop diversification, horticulture, and market-oriented agriculture, particularly in regions like Delhi with strong market linkages.

Assuring better inclusion of Delhi’s farmers in central schemes, Chouhan announced the rollout of several initiatives, including PM-AASHA, RKVY, crop insurance, and subsidies for polyhouses, orchards, and agri-machinery. He called on the Delhi government to submit proposals to expedite implementation.

He said, “Delhi’s farmers will now play a key role in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and benefit from every Central Government scheme. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are committed to transforming both the destiny and the landscape of Delhi’s farmers.”

The Minister reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and warned of strict action against the sale of counterfeit pesticides and fertilizers. “We will not allow anyone to exploit our farmers,” he declared.

Chouhan’s visit comes ahead of the campaign’s grand finale in Bardoli, Gujarat, marking the culmination of a 15-day nationwide outreach aimed at transforming Indian agriculture under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.