VARANASI, 30 June 2025: Union minister for agriculture, farmers welfare, and rural development, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, has called on scientists to accelerate the Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign and strengthen links with farmers to ensure tangible benefits reach the grassroots.
Chairing a review meeting with experts at the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) on Friday evening, Chauhan praised the nationwide momentum of the campaign and urged scientists to focus on improving food quality, building awareness of genome editing, and advancing seed treatment, organic, and natural farming to boost vegetable production.
He highlighted the urgent need for strict action against counterfeit fertilisers, substandard seeds, and toxic pesticides that damage farmer incomes and food security.
Commending the country’s 16,000 agricultural scientists, Chauhan emphasized the success of the Lab to Land programme, which translates research into practical solutions tailored to farmers’ needs.
He specifically encouraged data-driven research to extend the shelf life of tomatoes, develop export-ready vegetable varieties, and improve dry powder yields, all of which could help farmers access higher-value markets and reduce losses.
“There is a need to foster innovation directly at the grassroots, cut input costs, ensure fair prices for farmers, and promote natural farming practices,” Chauhan stated, stressing collaboration among Krishi Vigyan Kendras, state departments, and research institutions.
He also highlighted the importance of region-specific action plans for the upcoming Rabi season, taking into account climate change impacts such as erratic rainfall and soil degradation.
IIVR scientists shared progress under the Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign, with over 61,000 farmers reached across 825 villages in six districts, through sustainable practices and improved farm management support.
By encouraging practical research, stronger farmer engagement, and the adoption of advanced technologies, Chauhan said the government aims to build a more prosperous, resilient, and sustainable agriculture sector.
