Prime Minister Narendra Modi released 109 high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Diverse Crop Varieties Launched
The 109 crop varieties include 61 crops, featuring 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops. The field crops encompass cereals, millets, forage crops, oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, fibre, and more. Among the horticultural crops are new varieties of fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, tubers, spices, flowers, and medicinal plants.
Focus on Value Addition and Nutrition
PM Modi emphasized the importance of value addition in agriculture and the shift towards nutritious foods like millet. He highlighted the growing popularity of natural and organic farming, noting that more people are now demanding organic foods. Farmers expressed optimism about the new varieties, citing their potential to reduce costs and benefit the environment.
Support from Krishi Vigyan Kendras
Farmers praised the efforts of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in raising awareness about sustainable farming practices. The Prime Minister encouraged KVKs to regularly update farmers on the benefits of new crop varieties to enhance awareness.
Recognition of Scientific Contributions
Modi commended scientists for their work in developing these crop varieties. The scientists noted their efforts align with the Prime Minister’s vision of bringing underutilized crops into mainstream agriculture.