The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) recently held its 96th Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to strengthening agriculture through research, science, and innovation. The meeting was chaired by Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, with agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and science & technology ministers from over 18 states in attendance.
Centre and States Join Hands for Agricultural Growth
Addressing the gathering, Minister Chouhan emphasized that agriculture is not just the Centre’s responsibility but equally that of the states. Only through joint efforts can the entire agricultural ecosystem be strengthened. Highlighting India’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, he noted how the country, once dependent on wheat imports, is now self-reliant and even exports food grains.
Blending Science with Traditional Farming
The Minister underlined that farming is not just a tradition but a science that must benefit every farmer. He stressed the need to focus on crops like soybeans, pulses, and oilseeds and announced that crop-specific meetings are now underway to tackle these needs. For example, a dedicated meeting on soybeans will be held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and another on cotton in Coimbatore on July 11.
Strict Action Against Substandard Seeds and Fertilisers
Chouhan acknowledged farmers’ concerns about poor-quality seeds and inputs. He cited recent complaints about poor soybean germination and confirmed that investigations have been ordered. He assured strict legal action against suppliers of substandard seeds and fertilisers and said efforts are underway to ensure fair pricing for fertiliser inputs.
‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ Relaunched
Ahead of the upcoming Rabi season, the government will relaunch the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ to bridge the gap between research and farmers. A two-day Rabi conference is planned — the first day will draft a detailed plan, and the second day will see state ministers approve it. Chouhan stressed that India’s fertile soil must be protected to ensure food security for future generations.
Special Focus on Uttarakhand
During the meeting, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami discussed the state’s unique agricultural needs. Minister Chouhan announced financial support for fencing, promotion of traditional crops like mandua and jhingora, and cultivation of cash crops such as apples, kiwis, and dragon fruit. Plans for a Centre of Excellence for Superfoods in the region were also approved.
Agriculture: A Service, Not Just a Business
Reiterating his vision, Chouhan said that farming is a service to the nation, not merely a commercial activity. India must feed its 1.44 billion people and contribute to global food security as well. He described agricultural scientists as “modern sages” and urged them to ensure that their research directly benefits farmers on the ground.
ICAR’s 96th Annual Meeting marked an important step towards aligning India’s agriculture with future needs through new ideas, policies, and technology. Minister Chouhan concluded by saying that a developed India needs advanced agriculture and prosperous farmers, and both the Centre and states are fully committed to this goal.
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