Chouhan Urges Boost in Farm Productivity, Farmer Income at Western Zonal Conference

• Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized increasing productivity, reducing production costs, and ensuring remunerative prices for farmers.
• Chouhan stressed self-reliance in food, aiming for India to meet domestic needs and contribute globally, especially in pulses and oilseeds.
• He advocated for agricultural diversification, new scientific techniques, and natural farming to raise farmer income and maintain soil health.
• The Minister highlighted challenges from climate change and promoted integrated farming models, hydroponics for small landholdings.
• Chouhan urged states to effectively implement central schemes, assess crop losses for PMFBY, and promote natural farming.

Key Questions Answered

How will new farming techniques boost farmer income?

New farming techniques boost farmer income by reducing costs and increasing yields through integrated systems, modern methods like mulching and drip irrigation, and diversification.

What is the future of India's food security?

India's food security is being bolstered by significant government investment in the fisheries sector, with production rising to 197.75 lakh tonnes in 2024-25.

Will natural farming improve soil health long-term?

Natural farming practices are reported to improve soil health and fertility.