Part of the Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign, the initiative focuses on upgrading seeds, extending the shelf life of essential vegetables like tomatoes, and backing export-oriented vegetable production. Scientists were also encouraged to adopt sustainable farming methods, including genome editing, organic farming, and climate-smart practices that directly benefit farmers.
Experts at the meeting highlighted the Lab to Land programme as a key model for linking advanced agricultural technologies with farmers in the field. Reports revealed that more than 61,000 farmers across six districts had been reached with tailored guidance to encourage better farming practices and improved access to quality inputs for vegetable farming.
“Substandard seeds, fake fertilisers, and harmful pesticides are still major threats to farmers,” an official warned, stressing the need for stricter monitoring and stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure only approved, safe agricultural products reach farms.
The gathering also discussed preparations for the upcoming Rabi season, calling for region-specific, climate-resilient vegetable farming systems. Agricultural scientists were urged to collaborate closely with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and state agriculture departments to speed up technology transfer and offer real-time solutions for farmers facing unpredictable weather and soil challenges.
Training on seed treatment and improved farm management practices was identified as another priority, with the goal of restoring farmer trust in science-backed farming. Officials agreed that innovation must be practical, affordable, and driven by farmers’ real needs.
With over 16,000 agricultural scientists working across India, the meeting’s final message was clear: a sharper focus on sustainable, farmer-oriented innovation is essential to ensure food security, higher incomes, and climate-resilient farming futures.
Image credit: agriplanting.com
