VELLORE TAMILNADU
Press News Network
Promoting Unity and Progress in Indian Agriculture
Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, on 25 October 2025. The visit underscored the national resolve of “One Agriculture – One Nation – One Team,” emphasizing integrated progress for farmers’ prosperity and rural transformation. During his visit, Shri Chouhan engaged with farmers, women self-help groups (SHGs), and rural youth in a ‘Chaupal’ dialogue, discussing key initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY), National Pulses Mission, National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), Cluster Frontline Demonstration on Pulses (CFLD on Pulses), and Fermented Organic Manure (FOM/LFOM).
Engaging with Tamil Nadu’s Farming Community
At Vellore KVK, the Union Minister reviewed the region’s agricultural achievements and appreciated innovations like the Wild Boar Repellent, a practical solution for crop protection. Under the Seed Hub and Pulses Mission, high-yielding varieties (VBN-8, VBN-10, VBN-11) have been successfully disseminated. Shri Chouhan viewed exhibitions showcasing agricultural innovations and value-added products. He sought feedback on schemes related to agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries, guiding farmers on best practices.
‘Chaupal’ Dialogues: Addressing Farmers’ Needs
In the first ‘Chaupal’, Shri Chouhan interacted with farmers from Virudhunagar, Sivaganga, Thoothukudi, and Ramanathapuram districts, all part of the PM-DDKY. This scheme integrates 36 schemes from 11 central ministries to deliver comprehensive benefits. Farmers expressed satisfaction with natural farming, Mundu chili cultivation, and pulses and oilseeds CFLDs. In the second ‘Chaupal’, the Minister emphasized natural farming and the National Pulses Mission, highlighting their role in achieving self-reliance in pulses production. He praised the advanced pulses varieties developed by the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, under TNAU.
Key Announcements for Agricultural Growth
Shri Chouhan addressed farmers’ grievances, promising action on pest and disease issues affecting coconut crops. To counter price declines due to mango production gluts, he committed to establishing value-addition and processing units. He also assured that all eligible farmers in Tamil Nadu will be linked to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana for maximum outreach.
Appreciating Tamil Nadu’s Farmers
The Union Minister expressed admiration for the hard-working farmers of Tamil Nadu, their culture, and values. He promised to revisit to further engage on natural farming and related initiatives.
Event Highlights and Participation
The event saw participation from senior officials, including the Director of Tamil Nadu’s Agriculture, Horticulture & Farmers Welfare Department, Vice Chancellor of TNAU Dr. R. Tamizhvendan, Director of ICAR-ATARI Hyderabad Dr. Shaik N. Meera, Joint Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Ms. Initha, and State Horticulture Commissioner Shri Kumaravel Pandian. Hundreds of farmers, along with ‘Drone Didis’ and ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from self-help groups, participated enthusiastically.
Source Acknowledgement
Source: Posted by PIB Delhi on 25 October 2025, 7:11 PM.
Focused Keyword: Farmers’ Prosperity
Meta Description: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visits Vellore KVK, promotes farmers’ prosperity through PM-DDKY, natural farming, and pulses mission. (134 characters)