Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that Bengaluru should become a center for agricultural technology, similar to its status in the IT sector. He highlighted the importance of technological advancements in agriculture, including artificial intelligence, for overall progress. The Chief Minister spoke at the ‘Global Agri Tech Summit-2026’ organized by the FKCCI in Bengaluru, stressing the need to ensure that agricultural innovations benefit all farmers.
Siddaramaiah encouraged more farmer participation in programs like the summit to facilitate the adoption of new technologies and practices. He commended the exhibition on organic farming and agricultural machinery at the event but suggested separate exhibitions for better impact. The Chief Minister underscored the significance of making agriculture economically sustainable, expressing concern over the trend of youth moving away from farming due to profitability challenges.
Addressing the issue of declining interest in agriculture among the youth, Siddaramaiah highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance farm incomes through various schemes. He urged industries to collaborate in strengthening the agricultural sector and emphasized the revival of the Krishi Bhagya scheme to support farmers with dry land holdings. The Chief Minister also mentioned the allocation of agricultural loans amounting to Rs 70,000 crore to around 83 lakh farmers and Rs 8,000 crore for infrastructure development under the Chief Minister’s program.
Siddaramaiah stressed the necessity for increased investment in the agriculture sector to boost profitability. While acknowledging Karnataka’s leading position in industry and rural development, he emphasized the importance of enhancing investments in agriculture to ensure its prosperity.
