Jabalpur, April 8: The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, emphasized that India’s agricultural tradition is thousands of years old. He stated that agriculture is not just a means of livelihood but the very foundation of Indian culture and lifestyle.
While addressing the Agriculture Manthan program at Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University in Jabalpur, CM Yadav noted that Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a leading state in agricultural development by integrating tradition, scientific research, and modern technology. The hard work of farmers, the research of agricultural scientists, and the effective implementation of government schemes have led to significant achievements in the production of pulses, oilseeds, and food grains in the state.
He highlighted that farmers in the state are now moving beyond single-crop farming to adopt two and three-crop systems, setting new records. The use of drone technology, advanced agricultural equipment, natural farming models, and innovations based on improved seeds and processing is transforming the agricultural landscape.
CM Yadav reiterated that India’s agricultural tradition is deeply rooted and remains relevant today. He stressed the need to harmonize ancient agricultural knowledge developed by sages with modern scientific research.
He mentioned that respect for agriculture has always been an integral part of Indian philosophy, with references found even in the ancient Bhimbetka rock shelters. The late Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee had initiated the river linking project, which is now being realized under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The proper utilization of Narmada water and the expansion of irrigation projects have significantly increased Madhya Pradesh’s agricultural production capacity.
The Chief Minister asserted that promoting natural farming is essential in today’s context. Madhya Pradesh is a leading state in natural farming, with its area continuously expanding. The government is encouraging the production and procurement of coarse grains like kodo and kutki, providing farmers with better market access and promoting nutritious agriculture.
He noted that ragi laddus are being distributed as prasad at the Mahakal temple in Ujjain. The state is purchasing mustard under the Bhavantar scheme and has committed to buying wheat at a support price of up to 2,700 rupees per quintal.
CM Mohan Yadav highlighted that animal husbandry is a crucial component of agriculture. Special efforts are being made to increase milk production in the state, with a target to raise it from 9% to 20%. Additionally, a scheme for free milk distribution in government schools for children from classes one to eight is being implemented to enhance child nutrition.
He inaugurated various units constructed at a cost of 23 crore 21 lakh rupees, including the administrative building of the university. He also launched the “Jawahar Chara Digital Scanner” and an agricultural research tracking app. The new administrative building, built at a cost of 13 crore rupees, will be named after Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
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