In a major push to strengthen India’s agricultural sector, the Northern Regional Agriculture Conference was held on April 24 under the leadership of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The conference aims to drive farmer-centric, technology-driven, and coordinated agricultural development across northern states.
The high-level gathering brought together agriculture ministers, senior officials, scientists, progressive farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), agri-startups, and financial institutions. Representatives from key organisations such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India also participated, making it a comprehensive multi-stakeholder platform.
The conference focused on critical issues, including agricultural credit, the Kisan Credit Card scheme, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, digital agriculture initiatives, fertiliser management, and missions related to pulses and oilseeds under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. Special emphasis was placed on improving farmers’ income, enhancing productivity, and strengthening market linkages.
States such as Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh showcased successful agricultural practices, including crop diversification, intercropping techniques, digital land record systems, and horticulture innovations.
According to officials, the conference is part of a broader national effort to align regional agricultural strategies with national goals. It will contribute to shaping discussions at the upcoming National Kharif Conference in New Delhi, scheduled for May 28–29.
Addressing the gathering, Chouhan emphasised the need for stronger coordination between the Centre and states, adoption of modern technologies, and direct participation of farmers in policymaking. He noted that sustainable agricultural growth depends on combining scientific innovation with field-level experience.
The Northern Regional Agriculture Conference is expected to result in a concrete action plan aimed at improving agricultural productivity, reducing costs, promoting diversification, and accelerating rural prosperity, reinforcing the government’s vision of a developed and self-reliant India.