Chouhan’s initiative aims to enhance direct communication with farmers, address grievances, and promote agricultural development through a comprehensive strategy.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has announced a new initiative to foster direct communication with farmers, stating he will meet with them every Tuesday to address pressing issues in the agricultural sector. This initiative, aimed at enhancing farmer welfare and agricultural development, was revealed during a press conference detailing the Ministry’s achievements in the first 100 days of the third Narendra Modi-led government.

Chouhan emphasized the importance of “seedha samvad” (direct dialogue) with farmers, reflecting a commitment to understanding their challenges firsthand. “I believe in going to the fields as the Agriculture Minister, not just sitting in my office,” he stated, highlighting recent meetings with agriculture ministers from various states including Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.

The minister underscored the collaborative nature of agriculture governance, noting that while it is a state subject, the central government is dedicated to supporting state initiatives. “Krishi Bhawan is not just for Union ministers and officials; I invite state officials to join discussions here as well,” he said.

In response to ongoing farmer protests, particularly at the Shambhu border, Chouhan reiterated his commitment to improving the lives of farmers, describing this service as akin to a divine calling. He announced plans for a new program, “Modern Krishi Chaupal,” set to launch on All India Radio and Doordarshan in October 2024. This program will enable farmers to interact directly with agricultural experts in live Q&A sessions, along with a new call center dedicated to resolving farmers’ grievances.

Chouhan also shared details about a comprehensive “six-point strategy” designed to boost agricultural productivity and reduce costs. This strategy includes the introduction of 109 new seed varieties that are climate-friendly, pest-resistant, and high-yielding. He emphasized the government’s efforts to ensure affordable and timely availability of fertilizers, revealing the stark difference between market and subsidized prices for urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP).

Addressing questions about the Committee on Minimum Support Price, which was established after the withdrawal of three controversial farm laws, Chouhan confirmed that the committee has conducted 23 meetings and is actively working on its report, which is expected to be released soon.

With these initiatives, Chouhan aims to create a more robust framework for farmer engagement and support, ultimately reinforcing India’s food security and agricultural sustainability.