India's Assertive Position on Agricultural Market Amid External Pressures from Other Nations

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently highlighted India's resilience against external pressures to open its agricultural market. Speaking at a symposium in Vidisha, he noted that India now confidently engages on the global stage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that national interests, especially those of farmers, will not be compromised. Chouhan remarked that India can now assertively communicate with the world.

Chouhan recalled a time when India had to rely on low-quality PL-480 wheat from the United States. However, he pointed out that the situation has drastically improved. This year, India achieved a 3.7% growth in agriculture, leading to record production of wheat, rice, and maize. These achievements have significantly bolstered the nation's food reserves.

Economic Growth and Agricultural Contributions

The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister mentioned that anticipated tariffs were expected to impact India's economy negatively. Despite this, India recorded the highest GDP growth in three months, with agriculture being a major contributor. The country's GDP rose by 7.8% in the April-June quarter of the current fiscal year, marking the highest growth in five quarters before the imposition of tariffs by the United States.

Chouhan outlined a comprehensive strategy for farmers focusing on increased output and reduced costs. This six-pronged approach includes fair pricing, loss compensation, crop diversification, and promoting natural farming methods. He encouraged farmers to embrace diversification inspired by traditional practices.

Scientific Advancements in Agriculture

The Union minister discussed integrating science with farming by deploying 2,170 teams of scientists directly to farmers' fields. For the upcoming Rabi season, these scientific teams will visit farms starting October 3 to share insights on advanced cultivation techniques aimed at boosting productivity and reducing costs.

Chouhan addressed issues related to agricultural inputs misuse. He noted that dealers previously forced farmers to buy pesticides or fertilisers without proper verification. Approximately 30,000 bio-stimulant products were sold without scientific testing. Now, only products validated by ICAR or agricultural universities will be available.

Promoting Domestic Products

The minister urged citizens to support local employment and commerce by adopting swadeshi practices. He encouraged buying domestically produced goods such as clothing, food, and daily essentials instead of spending on foreign products.

Chouhan warned against selling ineffective or fake agricultural products. He stated that such actions would result in FIRs and licence cancellations for companies involved. Farmers would also receive compensation for any losses incurred due to these products.

With inputs from PTI