“Increasing wheat and barley production and reducing costs is essential”: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that while India today is self-reliant in the production of wheat and rice, it is equally important to reduce agricultural costs so that farming becomes more profitable. He made the statement while addressing the 64th All India Wheat and Barley Research Workers’ Workshop as the chief guest at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University, Gwalior today.

Shri Chouhan paid tribute to agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan in his centenary year, recalling his unforgettable contribution to the nation’s food self-sufficiency. Saluting the hard work of farmers, he said that India today stands tall as a strong agricultural nation at the global stage due to their hard work and our scientists’ research.

The Minister highlighted that in the past 10–11 years, the production of wheat has increased from 86.5 million tonnes to 117.5 million tonnes — a rise of about 44%. He said that while this achievement is remarkable, we must continue our efforts to bring per-hectare productivity at par with the global average. While wheat and rice production is already adequate, the current priority is to increase the productivity of pulses and oilseeds to reduce dependence on imports. He also underlined the medicinal value of traditional grains like barley, which require greater promotion.

Shri Chouhan urged scientists to develop bio-fortified wheat and to work on preventing the harmful impact of the use of imbalanced fertiliser on the quality of soil. He emphasised the importance of stubble management and educating farmers to adopt modern technologies. Shri Chouhan said the Central Government is taking strict action to protect farmers from counterfeit fertilisers and pesticides. Licenses of companies whose products have damaged crops are being cancelled, and strict action is being taken against offenders.

The Minister said that integrated farming is the most beneficial path for small and marginal farmers — combining agriculture with animal husbandry, beekeeping, fisheries, and horticulture. He appealed to all citizens to use indigenous products in our daily life and contribute to strengthening the country’s economy. He stressed that this conference is not just a formality, but a platform from which actionable suggestions and conclusions will be converted into a concrete roadmap.