Delhi, 2 June (H.S.): Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, engaged with farmers at Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Piprakothi, East Champaran, Bihar, as part of the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’. He highlighted Piprakothi's historical significance as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha and non-violence messages. Under Gandhi's ideals and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, initiatives like the Krishi Vigyan Kendra have propelled agricultural advancements here. Chouhan reiterated that the Agriculture Minister's role is to serve farmers, identifying agriculture as the backbone of the Indian economy and calling for collective efforts to realize Prime Minister Modi's vision of a developed India through thriving agriculture.
During his visit, he specifically addressed concerns from litchi growers about the fruit perishing within 48 hours, pledging government action to tackle this issue and directing ICAR scientists to research methods to prolong litchi shelf life. He also supported increasing cold storage facilities. Chouhan noted the positive impact of the Prime Minister's policies on maize cultivation in Bihar, with a surge in demand and prices due to ethanol production. Previously priced at ₹1200–₹1500 per quintal, maize prices have significantly risen, and yields improved from 23–24 quintals to 50–60 quintals per hectare.
He instructed scientists to enhance yields through research and development of improved seed varieties for Basmati and other rice types. Despite small land plots, Bihar's farmers are thriving. Two newly developed rice varieties require 20% less water while increasing yield by 30%.
Chouhan reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing crop production in Bihar, focusing not just on grain but also on fruits, vegetables, and flowers for the population of 1.45 billion. He condemned a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, highlighting India's swift military response under Prime Minister Modi. The Indus Waters Treaty, which gave Pakistan 80% of river water, has been annulled, reinforcing India's assertion that “blood and water cannot flow together.” He promised strict action against counterfeit pesticides and emphasized that no one will be spared. The ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ aims to bridge the gap between research and agriculture, with 16,000 scientists engaging directly with farmers. Concluding, Shri Chouhan embraced the mantra ‘One Nation–One Agriculture–One Team’ and committed to farmer prosperity, discussing plans to explore the export potential of Bihar’s flattened rice (chidwa). He ended by stating, “Annadata Sukhi Bhavah—if our food providers are happy, the nation will be happy.” The event saw significant attendance from farmers, MPs, MLAs, scientists, and officials.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
