Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Release 109 New Seed Varieties
Bhopal, India – August 12, 2024 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release 109 new seed varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) on Sunday. These varieties are designed for different climatic zones and include cereals, rice, wheat, maize, sorghum, millet, and various oilseeds.
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the efforts made to enhance agricultural productivity and efficiency. He mentioned a new paddy variety that requires 20% less water and reduces pest infestation. The government is also working to ensure that scientific advancements reach farmers directly from laboratories to fields.
The minister also announced a significant increase in the agriculture budget, from Rs 27,000 crore under the UPA government to Rs 1.52 lakh crore today. This includes subsidies and support for allied sectors.
The government has also implemented a special package of Rs 2,625 crore to mitigate the impact of international market conditions on fertilizer transportation. This measure aims to ensure that farmers are not burdened by increased costs.
Chouhan emphasized the crucial role of agriculture in the Indian economy, accounting for 17% of GDP and employing half the population. He highlighted the government’s focus on increasing production, reducing costs, and ensuring fair prices for farmers.
The Prime Minister will personally visit ICAR fields and release the new varieties at three different locations, interacting with farmers and discussing their needs.