NEW DELHI, 1 June 2026: Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has called for the removal of unnecessary administrative hurdles in agriculture, stressing that governance systems must be designed to serve farmers rather than burden them with complex procedures.
Addressing the second day of the National Agriculture Conference – Kharif Campaign 2026 at Pusa, New Delhi, Chouhan urged states to simplify agricultural schemes, strengthen implementation mechanisms and adopt a more farmer-centric approach to policy execution.
“Rules and procedures exist for the convenience of farmers; farmers do not exist for rules,” Chouhan said while addressing agriculture ministers, senior officials, scientists and progressive farmers from across the country.
Team India Approach to Agriculture
The conference brought together Agriculture Ministers from several states, senior government officials, scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and progressive farmers to discuss strategies for accelerating agricultural growth and improving farmer incomes.
Describing the gathering as a historic meeting of the “Agriculture Team of India,” Chouhan said the country must work collectively to strengthen food security, improve agricultural productivity and enhance farmer prosperity.
Record Foodgrain Production
Highlighting India's agricultural achievements, the Union Minister said the country has recorded its highest-ever foodgrain production of approximately 376.56 million tonnes, according to the Third Advance Estimates for 2025-26.
He noted that India has emerged as the world's leading rice producer while also registering strong growth in wheat, maize, pulses and oilseeds production.
“While these achievements are encouraging, we cannot afford to slow down. Agriculture must continue to grow through innovation, scientific research and coordinated action,” he said.
Focus on Quality Seeds and Input Management
Chouhan emphasized that quality seeds remain the foundation of agricultural productivity and expressed concern over delays in seed distribution despite adequate availability.
He directed states to strengthen seed distribution systems, ensure timely availability of breeder seeds and prevent poor-quality seeds from entering the market.
The minister also highlighted the importance of Soil Health Cards, balanced fertilizer use and transparent fertilizer distribution under the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan campaign.
He said the month-long campaign, running from June 1 to June 30, aims to educate farmers on soil health management, quality seeds, balanced fertilizer application, pesticide use, modern technologies and government schemes.
Strong Action Against Fake Agricultural Inputs
Taking a firm stance against counterfeit agricultural products, Chouhan said fake seeds, substandard pesticides and poor-quality farm inputs cause significant harm to farmers and the national economy.
“Those selling counterfeit agricultural inputs are not merely committing economic offences; they are causing national damage,” he said.
He urged states to intensify inspections, increase sample testing, establish accredited laboratories and ensure strict legal action against offenders.
Strengthening Agricultural Credit and Crop Insurance
The Union Minister stressed the importance of timely access to agricultural credit and Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs), particularly in eastern and northeastern states where farm credit penetration remains low.
He announced plans for discussions with banks to improve agricultural lending and urged states to review pending KCC applications.
On crop insurance, Chouhan called for greater accountability among banks, insurance companies and state governments to ensure timely settlement of claims and compensation to farmers affected by crop losses.
Push for Pulses and Oilseeds Self-Reliance
The minister reiterated the government's commitment to achieving self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds through better implementation of the Pulses Mission, Oilseeds Mission and procurement programmes such as PM-AASHA.
He emphasized that farmers must receive remunerative prices and timely procurement support to encourage greater cultivation of these strategic crops.
Greater Role for FPOs and Krishi Vigyan Kendras
Chouhan highlighted the importance of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and agricultural universities in bridging the gap between research and farm-level adoption.
He said stronger collaboration among scientists, universities, extension agencies and progressive farmers would help accelerate the dissemination of innovative agricultural technologies.
Roadmap for Future Agriculture
The Union Minister urged states to prepare agriculture roadmaps based on their agro-climatic conditions, available resources and local strengths. He assured states of full support from the Central Government and scientific institutions in achieving agricultural growth targets.
Concluding his address, Chouhan said India's agricultural future depends on practical reforms, scientific innovation and farmer-focused governance.
He expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India would not only meet domestic food requirements but also strengthen its position as a global leader in foodgrains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, oilseeds and other agricultural commodities.
