Encouraging Advancement and Organic Farming in Agriculture: Shivraj Singh Chouhan at Pusa University Graduation Ceremony
In a significant address at the fourth convocation ceremony of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Pusa, Bihar on July 17, 2025, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the pivotal role of modern farming practices in India's agricultural growth, rural development, and sustainability.
Chouhan emphasized the importance of enhancing per-hectare productivity through the use of precision farming, improved water and nutrient management, and the cultivation of high-yielding, disease-resistant seeds. He also underscored the need for sustainable techniques such as organic farming and integrated pest management to minimize the use of synthetic inputs, promote biodiversity, and improve soil health.
The Minister praised Bihar's progress in crops like maize, litchi, and makhana, and highlighted the growing relevance of natural farming for restoring soil health and long-term sustainability in agriculture. During his visit, Chouhan inspected paddy fields where regenerative agriculture techniques are being used to reduce input costs, improve soil quality, and raise farmers' incomes.
Chouhan promoted small-scale mechanisation and agri-startups as key to improving agriculture, and mentioned Basmati rice exports worth Rs 50,000 crore and free foodgrain distribution to over 80 crore people as significant achievements. He also spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Yojana, with 100 districts identified to improve agricultural output.
The Minister also acknowledged the formation of the Makhana Board under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his visit, Chouhan inaugurated the Vikramshila Hostel and Aryavart International Guest House.
Several key leaders attended the ceremony, including Union Minister of State Ramnath Thakur, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sinha, Minister Maheshwar Hazari, and local MP Shambhavi. The 20th PM-KISAN installment is expected to be released today during PM Modi's visit.
Chouhan described Samastipur as the gateway to Mithilanchal and praised Bihar's contributions to Indian history, culture, and agriculture. He urged graduating students to use their knowledge to revolutionize Indian agriculture and align their careers with national development goals in agriculture.
Modern farming practices in India have become a cornerstone for agricultural growth, rural development, and sustainability. They differ from traditional methods by integrating technology, advanced agronomy, and organized supply chains. While significant achievements have been made, especially in organic production and government-led procurement, challenges like infrastructure gaps and market inefficiencies persist. The future lies in a balanced adoption of technology, sustainable practices, and supportive policies to ensure that the benefits of modern agriculture reach all farmers and contribute to national and global food security.
Chouhan encouraged the graduating students to utilize their education and self-development to revolutionize Indian agriculture, focusing on aligning their careers with national development goals in agriculture. He emphasized the importance of modern farming practices in education-and-self-development, as they facilitate agricultural growth, rural development, and sustainability.
