Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, convened a crucial high-level meeting today at Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi, to strengthen the nation’s Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). The strategic discussions focused on enhancing the effectiveness and reach of these vital agricultural extension centers, with senior officials including Agriculture Secretary Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi and ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat in attendance.
Strengthening the KVK Network Nationwide
Highlighting the critical role of KVKs, Shri Chouhan noted that India currently operates 731 KVKs across the country. He emphasized that while expanding this network remains a priority, the immediate focus must be on strengthening existing centers to better serve small and marginal farmers. KVKs serve as the primary interface between agricultural research and farmers, playing a pivotal role in technology dissemination, skill development, and delivering cutting-edge agricultural innovations directly to the field.
Empowering KVKs for Farmer-Centric Development
The Union Minister directed KVKs to actively facilitate the implementation of government’s farmer-friendly policies, schemes, and programs. He stressed the need for KVKs to enhance farmers’ awareness and welfare through targeted interventions. Key directives included:
- Developing model initiatives for integrated farming systems
- Promoting natural and sustainable agriculture practices
- Ensuring effective implementation of central and state agricultural schemes
- Strengthening agricultural entrepreneurship and skill development
Addressing Human Resource Challenges
Shri Chouhan issued clear instructions to ICAR officials to provide KVKs with adequate financial, human, and technical resources. He emphasized the need for:
- Streamlined promotions and career progression for KVK scientists
- Academic parity based on qualifications and experience
- Uniformity across all KVKs in training programs, research extension activities
- Standardization of salaries, allowances, and retirement benefits
Coordinated Institutional Reforms
The Minister directed officials to coordinate with state governments, NITI Aayog, and the Ministry of Finance to implement comprehensive reforms. Key focus areas include ensuring uniformity in service conditions, addressing cadre issues, and creating an enabling environment for KVK personnel to perform at their best.
Vision for Agricultural Transformation
Reiterating the government’s commitment to farmer welfare, Shri Chouhan emphasized that empowered KVKs are essential for the holistic development of India’s agriculture sector. He called for a renewed focus on ensuring that the benefits of agricultural research and innovation reach every farmer, particularly small and marginal cultivators who form the backbone of Indian agriculture.
The high-level meeting underscores the government’s proactive approach to strengthening agricultural extension services and ensuring that KVKs fulfill their mandate as catalysts for rural prosperity and agricultural modernization.