Jaipur Hosts Regional and Western States Agricultural Conference as Centre Pushes Diversification, Farmer ID, and Self-Reliance

of a major agricultural conference for regional and western states, where Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that whenever work related to agriculture is recalled, Rajasthan’s name emerges prominently. He stated that the Rajasthan government is very serious about agricultural development and underscored that discussions on farming are not possible without farmers, noting the presence of progressive farmers at the event. He asserted that farmers are not only food providers but also life providers.

Highlighting India’s diversity, Chouhan said the country has different climates, different soils, and different crops, which led to its division into zones. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma stated that five zonal conferences will be held across the country, beginning with Rajasthan, the land of warriors. He noted that while wheat and rice stocks in the country are overflowing with no space to store them, there remains a concern over the shortage of pulses, which necessitates imports. He stressed the need for self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds, adding that farmers work day and night, sweating to ensure good crops, and therefore their income must be doubled.

Sharma further stated that nutritional security must be ensured, for which a six-point strategy has been devised. He also pointed out unusual seasonal patterns, saying that months like Chaitra and Vaishakh are witnessing conditions of Sawan and Bhadon, and emphasized the need to tackle climate change while protecting crops.

Chouhan reiterated the need for agricultural diversification, warning that the fertility of the land is continuously declining and that sustainable farming practices must be promoted. He stressed that agriculture is the most important sector in the country, and any disruption in it would lead to widespread consequences. He firmly instructed that no participant should leave the conference early, dismissing excuses such as catching flights.

On administrative measures, Chouhan announced that the distribution of fertilizers and seeds will be linked to Farmer ID, directing all states to complete this task in mission mode. He acknowledged reports of crop damage due to adverse weather conditions and assured that efforts will be made to provide full benefits to farmers under the Prime Minister Crop Insurance Scheme. He added that the central government will release the budget in the new financial year, but states must ensure its proper utilization.

He clarified that no scheme will be imposed on states by the Centre and that out of 18 schemes, states are free to opt for those where they seek greater financial support. He also urged states to complete procurement on time so that farmers receive timely benefits. Addressing market access, he said that if farmers wish to sell crops such as potatoes, onions, and tomatoes in other states, the Centre will bear the transportation cost. Concluding on the occasion of World Health Day, he appealed to everyone to remain fit.

The conference marks a significant step in aligning national and state-level agricultural priorities, focusing on sustainability, farmer welfare, and self-reliance amid evolving climate and market challenges.