NEW DELHI: In a high-level meeting aimed at addressing the pressing challenges of the agrarian sector, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan met with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The comprehensive discussions focused on critical agricultural issues, particularly the urgent need for crop diversification, paddy milling, water conservation, and the adoption of sustainable farming practices in Punjab.
Addressing the media following the meeting, Union Minister Chouhan lauded Punjab’s historic and ongoing role in ensuring India’s food security, referring to the state as the nation’s “food bowl.” He emphasized that the Central and Punjab governments are committed to working collaboratively to promote crop diversification, protect depleting water resources, and improve soil health, noting that sustainable agriculture is vital for long-term sector resilience.
Focus on Diversification and Support During the deliberations, the leaders explored viable solutions to promote and support oilseed, pulse, cotton, and horticulture missions within the state.
Chouhan stressed the critical importance of balanced fertilizer usage and sought to allay concerns by assuring that there is no shortage of fertilizers in the country. Addressing a major concern for the farming community, the Union Minister firmly reiterated that farmers should not face financial losses due to shifting away from traditional crops. He assured that the Central Government will extend robust support through various specialized schemes related to cotton, pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture.
Continued Central Backing and Procurement Targets Furthermore, Chouhan assured CM Mann that the Centre will continue to support Punjab through ongoing agriculture, irrigation, and farmer welfare schemes. He also indicated that the state’s proposal to include a Punjab representative in the Central Seed Committee will be actively examined.
In response, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann affirmed Punjab’s commitment to national food security, stating that the state is on track to meet its ambitious wheat procurement target of 125 lakh metric tonnes for the current season, ensuring it continues to play a leading role in India’s foodgrain production.
