What happened in Patna (Krishi Jan Kalyan Samvad)

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan told farmers at Krishi Jan Kalyan Samvad in Patna that farmers are the country’s backbone and that the Central government is promoting integrated farming and natural farming to increase farmers’ income. He met farmers, listened to their problems, and sought farmers’ suggestions, while also referencing Central government policies and practical agricultural models presented through ICAR demonstration efforts.

At the event, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan also urged farmers to try natural and advanced farming on a small portion of land before scaling up. He highlighted soil health concerns from excessive use of chemical fertilizers and stressed organic and balanced farming practices. He further stated that the Centre and States will work together on marketing and branding organic products so farmers get better price and recognition.

Integrated and natural farming: what the minister described

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan argued that integrated farming can support stable income even on small landholdings. He gave an example of integrated farming implemented at the ICAR Eastern Campus using a small holding model.

He described an integrated farming setup for a 2–3 bigha model after paddy harvest where the field is divided into four sections and planted with wheat, gram, mustard, and maize. He also cited allied activities as additional income sources, including fish farming in ponds, poultry units, duck farming, vine vegetables, fruit trees, and fodder fields. The minister linked these combined activities with the potential to increase annual income up to Rs 2 lakh (as stated during the event).

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