During a recent visit to Punjab, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the importance of targeted subsidies for farmers. He stressed that these financial aids should only be given to those who truly deserve them. This statement was made as part of his ongoing campaign, the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA), which aims to connect farmers with modern agricultural practices and technologies.
Chouhan’s visit included interactions with farmers in various locations, including Tigipur and Bakhtawarpur. He emphasised the need for climate-resilient seeds and affordable farm machinery, which are crucial for improving crop yields, especially in the face of climate change.
The VKSA campaign, launched on May 29, 2025, aims to educate over 1.5 crore farmers across 700 districts. With the help of 16,000 agricultural scientists, the campaign focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and the needs of farmers.
One of the key objectives of the VKSA is to provide farmers with knowledge about the latest agricultural technologies. This includes information on soil health, crop selection, and sustainable farming practices. Chouhan noted that 2,170 expert teams are visiting villages, engaging directly with farmers to share insights and gather feedback on their challenges.
Chouhan stated, “Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy; without farming, the identity of Hindustan is incomplete.” He also mentioned that even a slight increase in production can significantly impact Kharif crop yields.
During the campaign, Chouhan has interacted with farmers from various states, including Odisha, Haryana, and Maharashtra. His approach involves not only sharing knowledge but also listening to farmers’ concerns. This two-way communication is essential for developing effective agricultural policies.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of modern farming techniques, such as direct seeding of paddy (DSR). This method has shown to be more water-efficient and cost-effective compared to traditional transplanting methods. Farmers have reported that this technique reduces labour costs while maintaining good yields.
In addition to promoting new techniques, Chouhan has addressed the need for balanced pesticide use. He warned against the excessive application of chemicals, which can lead to increased costs and lower crop quality.
Chouhan expressed his commitment to promoting natural farming and advancing water conservation efforts. He believes that these initiatives will enhance the long-term sustainability of agriculture in India.
The VKSA campaign is not just about promoting technology; it also focuses on empowering farmers. By engaging directly with them, Chouhan aims to ensure that their voices are heard in shaping agricultural policies. He stated, “Policies will now be shaped by inputs from farmers—not by bureaucrats.”
The Minister’s efforts are crucial as they align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-sufficient India. By enhancing agricultural production and increasing farmer incomes, the VKSA aims to create a brighter future for Indian agriculture.
As the campaign continues, Chouhan will visit more regions, providing farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. His focus on deserving subsidies, climate-resilient seeds, and modern farming practices reflects a comprehensive approach to improving the agricultural landscape in India.