Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has called upon the eastern states to prioritize pulses, oilseeds, and crop diversification in the ongoing kharif season. Speaking at the Eastern Regional Kharif Agriculture Zonal Conference in Bhubaneswar, he emphasized the need for special attention to be given to small and marginal farmers. Chouhan highlighted the importance of achieving self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds, stating that diversification is crucial not only for expanding crop varieties but also for maintaining soil health.
The minister underscored that continuous cultivation of the same crop can deplete soil fertility, whereas pulses contribute to enhancing soil quality through nitrogen fixation. He mentioned that the zonal conference, involving Odisha, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, served as a platform for in-depth discussions on various agricultural aspects. Chouhan stressed the significance of integrated farming, especially for the benefit of small-scale farmers, by combining different agricultural activities to boost income sources.
India’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and agricultural challenges across states necessitate tailored approaches, according to Chouhan. He highlighted the effectiveness of zonal conferences over a single national event for addressing region-specific needs. The minister announced the upcoming nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from June 1 to June 15, focusing on balanced fertiliser use, soil health awareness, and farmer education. Under the leadership of PM Modi, the government aims to enhance food security, promote nutritious food availability, and uplift farmers’ livelihoods through a strategic six-point agenda.
