Agriculture is the soul of Indian economy and farmers are its backbone: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan commenced the celebrations by planting a sapling alongside agricultural scientists, officers, and employees of the institute.

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the 96th Indian Council of Agricultural Research Foundation and Technology Day 2024 in New Delhi today. The event was graced by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (alias Lalan Singh), Union Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Bhagirath Chaudhary and Shri Ram Nath Thakur, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Minority Affairs Shri George Kurien, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, and Secretary (Department of Agricultural Research and Education) & Director General (ICAR) Shri Himanshu Pathak.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan commenced the celebrations by planting a sapling alongside agricultural scientists, officers, and employees of the institute. The Union Ministers inaugurated an exhibition organized to showcase the latest advancements and technologies in agriculture.

During the event, 25 new crop varieties were released, along with various products made from crop waste and vaccine kits for animal and fisheries. The ministers also felicitated scientists and released several publications from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

In his address, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the need to create model farms for small-holding farmers, noting that agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of doubling farmers' income and stressed the importance of diversifying agriculture to achieve this. He urged scientists to set and achieve targets over the next four years, contributing significantly to making India a developed nation by 2047.

Shri Chouhan also discussed the impact of ICAR's 6,000 crop varieties and the need for better lab-to-land connectivity. He called for a stronger relationship between farmers and scientists, suggesting that scientists spend time in the fields to better understand farmers' needs. He also underscored the importance of natural farming, increasing production of "Shri Anna" (millets), and developing indigenous breeds of animals, all while considering the effects of climate change.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the importance of livestock and fisheries, which contribute 35 percent to the gross domestic production. He called for increased attention to these sectors, aiming to boost their contribution to over 50 percent. Singh highlighted India's achievements in fisheries exports and the need for continued support to eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in livestock. He also advocated for research in IVF technology to increase milk production and reduce stray animals.

Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur stressed the importance of improving grain storage systems and developing non-toxic fertilizers. Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel praised ICAR's work in laboratories and fields, particularly the development of Nano Urea, which helps double farmers' income. He also supported the focus on classified semen to increase the number of female calves.

Shri Bhagirath Chaudhary addressed the need to support the farmers who feed 140 crore people and emphasized the digital revolution in agriculture. He called for increased oilseed production and water conservation efforts, involving Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in public awareness campaigns among farmers.

Union Minister of State for Fisheries Shri George Kurien highlighted India's position as the second-largest fish producer in the world.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education and Director General of ICAR, noted ICAR's role in helping India become a global agricultural exporter through technological advancements.

The event underscored the collaborative efforts needed to advance agricultural research, improve farmer-scientist connections, and ensure sustainable growth in the agriculture sector.