Bhopal, Aug 29 (UNI) India today stands confident and unshakable on the global stage, asserting that no external force can suppress its farmers, families, or national interests, union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan said here today.
The remarks came against the backdrop of the US administration’s tariffs on Indian agricultural and industrial products, highlighting India’s determination to protect its farmers and ensure food security. He was addressing the review meeting with farmers and scientists at ICAR and NBAIR.
Chauhan emphasized that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to ensuring that no trade policy or external pressure harms the nation’s farmers, livestock, or overall agricultural growth. “Nation First, Always is our guiding principle. While we embrace global fraternity, we remain a sovereign and independent nation,” he said.
Chauhan highlighted the pivotal role of research institutes in transforming Indian agriculture. He underlined the importance of using beneficial insects to naturally control harmful pests, thereby reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. “Nature itself can regulate pests,” he said, “ensuring that crops are protected, the environment is preserved, and only necessary insects survive.”
The Minister explained that small farmers, typically working on two to five acres, face unique challenges compared to large-scale farms abroad. To address this, the government has launched the Science-Farmer Resolution Campaign, under which scientists will work directly with farmers, demonstrating modern pest control techniques, releasing beneficial insects in targeted areas, and gradually scaling up these interventions for broader impact.
Chauhan stressed that this initiative aims to increase crop productivity, reduce production costs, and enhance farmers’ income while safeguarding human health and the environment. He called for bridging the gap between laboratory research and on-field application, ensuring that scientific advances reach the farmer’s fields effectively.
“Through these efforts, we can not only increase yields but also lower input costs, thereby automatically increasing farmers’ profits. Our smallholders must be equipped with practical solutions that ensure sustainable and profitable farming,” he said.
The Minister also praised the Green Revolution in India, particularly in wheat and rice, noting that the country is now largely self-sufficient in food grains. “Our warehouses are full, and we even export basmati rice worth over 50,000 crore rupees,” he said. “Yet, the real challenge remains to make farming profitable for our farmers while ensuring food security.”
Chauhan reiterated his commitment as Agriculture Minister to support scientific research and implement practical solutions for farmers. He urged institutes to maximize their efforts, stating, “We will fully leverage this research for the benefit of our farmers, crops, and the nation.”
Concluding his address, he highlighted India’s broader vision of sustainable, science-driven, and farmer-centric agriculture that ensures the country’s resilience, independence, and ability to withstand global economic pressures.
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