Prime Minister Launches 109 New Climate-Resilient Crop Varieties to Empower Farmers
PM highlighted the significance of value addition in agriculture
Farmers said the new varieties will be highly beneficial as they will help reduce expenditure and also have a positive impact on environment
PM lauded scientists for the development of these new crop varieties
Scientists informed that they have been working in line with the suggestion given by PM to bring unutilised crops into mainstream
PM discussed the benefits of natural farming and the increasing demand for organic food
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the government's commitment to empowering the nation's farmers by launching 109 new high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties at the India Agricultural Research Institute today. The Prime Minister emphasized that these new varieties will significantly boost farmers' incomes while promoting sustainable farming practices.
During the event, Modi engaged in a detailed discussion with farmers and scientists about the benefits of these new crop varieties. He highlighted the importance of value addition in agriculture and expressed satisfaction with the growing trend of farmers transitioning to natural and organic farming methods. The Prime Minister noted that the adoption of these practices not only reduces farming costs but also positively impacts the environment.
The farmers shared their experiences with natural farming and praised the government's initiatives to promote it. They also commended the role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in spreading awareness about sustainable farming practices. The Prime Minister urged KVKs to proactively educate farmers about the benefits of newly developed crop varieties, ensuring that these innovations reach every corner of the country.
The 109 varieties released include 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops, ranging from cereals, millets, and pulses to fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Modi also stressed the rising demand for nutritious food, particularly millets, and the increasing consumer interest in organic produce.
The scientists involved in developing these new crop varieties informed the Prime Minister that their work aligns with his vision to bring underutilized crops into the agricultural mainstream. Modi lauded their efforts, underscoring the importance of continued innovation in agriculture to ensure the well-being and prosperity of Indian farmers.