Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan spoke to a gathering of 20,000 farmers in Sirsala, Beed district, Maharashtra, highlighting government efforts to support rural communities amid recent challenges.
Interaction with Local Farmers
Before the main event at Global Vikas Trust Krishikul, Chouhan met farmers directly. They discussed their work in silk farming, natural farming methods, and water conservation projects. He praised the Global Vikas Trust team for improving farmer incomes and living conditions. Chouhan noted that these examples should spread to other villages to encourage similar work. He stressed that the main goal remains raising farmer earnings to avoid desperate situations like suicides.
Role of Farmers in the Nation
In his speech, Chouhan described farmers as the nation’s food providers, or Annadaata. He mentioned that, for the first time, scientists under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan have left labs to visit fields and share research benefits with farmers.
Response to Weather-Related Crop Damage
Chouhan pointed out that heavy rains this year harmed crops in many areas, impacting farmer families. Both central and state governments stand ready to help. The state will offer quick compensation for losses, with extra support from the National Disaster Response Fund. If the state requests a special relief package after assessing damage, the central government will provide it fully.
Ensuring Insurance Payouts
Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, every due rupee will reach farmers, Chouhan assured. If needed, direct talks with farmers will confirm this. In a recent Delhi meeting with insurance firms, he reviewed claims with input from Maharashtra farmers to fix any issues. The state will use Crop Cutting Experiments to evaluate losses and issue payments.
Adapting to Climate Challenges
To counter changing weather like uneven rains and droughts, new seed types that withstand both floods and dry spells must be created, Chouhan said. He also discussed plans to send fertiliser subsidies straight to farmer bank accounts for better efficiency and less waste.
Shift to Sustainable Practices
Chouhan highlighted cow-based and natural farming to reduce reliance on chemicals, which harm soil over time. For future generations, organic methods are essential. He encouraged growing fruits, flowers, vegetables, and trees alongside regular crops to update farming patterns.
Improving Market Access
To secure better prices, cluster farming allows direct sales to buyers, while village processing units add value to produce. Chouhan mentioned working with Food Processing Minister Chirag Paswan to advance local processing.
Water and Integrated Farming Initiatives
In drought-hit areas, 65 percent of MGNREGA funds will go toward water conservation to boost irrigation. Chouhan advocated combining farming with beekeeping, fisheries, and livestock, especially on small plots, to boost incomes.
Housing Support for Rural Families
Maharashtra has received 30 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin so far. After a new survey, all qualifying families will get aid for homes.
Action Against Substandard Inputs
Chouhan stated that a bill to penalize fake fertilisers, seeds, and pesticides will come in the next Budget Session, as the government views this matter seriously.
Chouhan affirmed that farmers represent national pride, and under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, steps continue to ensure their dignity, prosperity, and independence.
Celebrating a Milestone
Chouhan ended by greeting farmers and citizens on the 150th year of the national song Vande Mataram.