India’s agriculture sector is set for a significant boost with the government’s new initiative called the ‘Crop War.’ Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced this plan during a review meeting for the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ at the ICAR Pusa Campus in New Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance productivity in key crops such as pulses, oilseeds, soybean, cotton, and sugarcane.
The ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ has been described as a historic movement for agriculture in India. It connects scientists with over 60,000 villages to improve farming practices. The campaign ran from May 29 to June 12 and involved over 2,170 nodal officers who shared their experiences and insights.
Minister Chouhan emphasised the importance of this initiative in enhancing farmers’ income and achieving food security. He highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which focuses on transforming agricultural research into practical solutions for farmers. The campaign is part of a broader effort to make India a global food basket.
A key focus of the ‘Crop War’ will be on sustainable farming practices. The minister called for the development of biofortified crops and the use of mechanisation to improve efficiency. Soil health and coastal agriculture are also priorities in this new mission.
Chouhan’s plan includes specific strategies for each crop and state. This will involve prioritising research, regulating against low-quality inputs, and forming special teams for compliance. To support these efforts, the government aims to strengthen Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) by appointing dedicated nodal officers. Scientists will also be required to engage more directly with farmers in the fields.
To further develop these strategies, a two-day conference will focus on the upcoming Rabi season. The first day will be for officials, while the second will involve agriculture ministers. This conference aims to finalise the action plan for the future.
The campaign also encourages collaboration between different agricultural institutions. By promoting inter-institutional learning, the government hopes to align research and extension strategies effectively.
In summary, the ‘Crop War’ initiative is a significant step toward revitalising India’s agricultural sector. With a focus on key crops, sustainable practices, and strong collaboration between scientists and farmers, the government is setting the stage for a new era in Indian agriculture. This plan not only aims to boost production but also to ensure that farmers’ incomes rise, contributing to the overall economic growth of the country. The commitment to food security and sustainable farming practices will help position India as a leader in global agriculture.