National Conference on Agriculture 2024 Sets Big Goals for Rabi Season

Key Highlights

• Focus on organic farming and advanced technologies to improve crop yields.
• Emphasis on collaboration between central and state governments.
• The target set for food grain production at 341.55 million tonnes for 2024-25.
• Initiatives to enhance oilseed and pulse production significantly by 2030-31.
• Introduction of digital platforms for pest management and farming advisories.

The National Conference on Agriculture for the Rabi Campaign 2024 focused on improving crop production by promoting organic farming, using advanced technologies, and enhancing collaboration between the central and state governments. Key discussions included ways to increase oilseed and pulse production, launching digital agriculture initiatives, and ensuring high-quality farming inputs.

Also Read: Govt Increases MSP for Rabi Crops 2025-26: Mustard and Rapeseed Get the Highest Boost

Conference Kick-Off

Union Minister of Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, opened the conference at the NASC Complex in New Delhi. The main goal was to review the past season's crop performance and set targets for the upcoming Rabi season. The event brought together state representatives, researchers, and policymakers to discuss strategies for boosting agricultural productivity, using modern farming methods, and ensuring farmers get the supplies they need.

In his speech, Minister Chouhan stressed the importance of organic and natural farming to increase crop yields while reducing production costs. He also highlighted the need for fair prices for farmers and announced the formation of a committee to tackle transportation costs and price differences between procurement and sale. Chouhan urged states to work closely with the central government to make India a leading global food producer. The target for food grain production in 2024-25 is set at 341.55 million tonnes.

Also Read: Organic Farming in India: Types, Methods, Benefits & Challenges Explained

Support for Farmers

Ramnath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture, called for immediate action to support farmers affected by recent floods and cyclones. He emphasized the need for senior officers and researchers to check the quality of agricultural products in the market. Bhagirath Choudhary, another Minister of State for Agriculture, thanked research institutions for helping India become self-reliant in pulses and oilseeds production.

Key Topics and Initiatives

The conference featured sessions on key areas such as increasing the productivity of oilseeds and pulses, and the introduction of digital platforms like the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) and the Integrated Pesticide Management System (IPMS). These discussions highlighted the importance of developing high-yield seed varieties and using machines to improve the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.

Boosting oilseed production was a major focus. The government aims to increase oilseed production from 39.2 million metric tons (MMT) in 2022-23 to 69.7 MMT by 2030-31, with plans to expand the cultivation area and improve yields through advanced seeds and machinery.

Also Read: Fig Farming: Farmers to Get 40% Subsidy on Fig Cultivation in Bihar

New Technologies for Better Farming

Technological advancements were also discussed, especially for improving agricultural inputs and managing pests. The NPSS system helps farmers monitor pest and disease outbreaks, while the IPMS ensures the quality and availability of pesticides. The SATHI portal was introduced to streamline the seed production process, from inspection to distribution.

Digital Agriculture Mission

The conference also explored the Digital Agriculture Mission, which aims to use digital tools to provide personalized advice to farmers. Platforms like the Krishi Decision Support System will help farmers make better decisions to increase productivity.

Looking Ahead

The conference ended with an interactive session where state officials shared the issues facing their farmers. Discussions covered topics like improving the mechanization of oilseed and pulse farming and involving private companies in agricultural research. The National Conference on Agriculture for Rabi Campaign 2024 set the stage for improved crop production and a successful Rabi season through collaboration and innovation.

Also Read: Satyukt Analytics Wins Smart Farm Grant for Sugarcane Harvesting Technology

CMV360 says

The National Conference on Agriculture for Rabi Campaign 2024 set ambitious goals for enhancing crop productivity through organic farming, technology, and state collaboration. With a focus on boosting oilseed and pulse yields, ensuring quality inputs, and adopting digital solutions, the conference laid the foundation for a successful Rabi season.