Rajnath Singh opens Unnat Krishi Mahotsav,focuses modern farming

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday inaugurated the three-day Unnat Krishi Mahotsav at Dussehra Maidan in Raisen, marking the beginning of a major agricultural showcase aimed at promoting innovation and boosting farmers’ incomes.The three-day ‘Unnat Krishi Mela’ (Advanced Agriculture Festival), a Central government initiative aimed at promoting technology-driven farming and long-term agricultural planning, began in Raisen district on Saturday.Rajnath Singh, along with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, formally inaugurated the national-level agriculture event at Dussehra Maidan. The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of lamps, followed by a mass rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’.
The national-level agriculture festival, being held from April 11 to 13, brings together farmers, scientists, policymakers, and agri-industry stakeholders from across the country on a single platform for deliberations. The event aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap from “lab to field” and “seed to market,” ensuring better productivity and higher income for farmers.350 stalls has been set up in the Raisen Agriculture Festival. Latest agriculture machinery are on display. Spread across a vast exhibition area, the fair features a wide range of agricultural solutions, including improved seed varieties, fertilizers, pesticides, micro-irrigation systems, and advanced farm machinery.From drones and solar pumps to happy seeders, reaper-binders, balers, and rotavators, the event offers farmers hands-on exposure through live demonstrations in open fields. Experts are providing practical training to help farmers understand and adopt these technologies effectively.

Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh said the government is taking multiple steps to improve the welfare and income of farmers. He highlighted that the Indian Army has increased the intake of “Shri Anna” (millets) in soldiers’ diets and has also begun procuring fresh vegetables directly from farmers—decisions aimed at benefiting both farmers and the armed forces.Encouraging youth participation, he urged young people to take up agriculture and bring innovation to the sector. He also underscored the growing importance of food processing as a key area for employment and value addition.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the Mahotsav is designed with a strong emphasis on delivering practical solutions directly to farmers. “This is not an ordinary fair but a school of agriculture, a place where 20 distinct sessions covering various topics related to farming will be held, and where live demonstrations will also be given,” he said.Before the inauguration, he had noted that the fair aims to explore ways to enhance farmers’ incomes and improve agricultural practices in the region.At Unnat Krishi Mahotsav in Raisen, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, “Central govt is committed to increase farmers’ income,” with a special focus on practical solutions for farmers.

#At Unnat Krishi Mahotsav in Raisen, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, “Central govt is committed to increase farmers’ income,” with a special focus on practical solutions for farmers. pic.twitter.com/HMplP1jDys

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The event includes continuous seminars and training sessions on key areas such as soil health management, crop diversification, natural farming, integrated nutrient and pest management, and post-harvest technologies. Scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras are interacting directly with farmers to offer tailored solutions.Special attractions include a mobile soil testing laboratory, live models of integrated farming systems, and dedicated units for dairy, fisheries, poultry, and goat rearing. Insurance companies and banks have also set up helpdesks to provide on-the-spot assistance for crop insurance and credit facilities.

Highlighting the broader vision, Chouhan said the government is working towards building sustainable and climate-resilient farming models while promoting allied sectors such as dairy, fisheries, and poultry.A key outcome of the Mahotsav will be the release of a region-specific agricultural roadmap for districts including Sehore, Vidisha, Raisen, and Dewas, outlining suitable crops, water conservation strategies, and market linkages.Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, speaking at the event, said, “India is secure through its soldiers and farmers, the nation’s honour and respect continue to rise.”The festival will conclude on April 13 in the presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, when a comprehensive roadmap for agricultural development in the region is expected to be unveiled, setting the direction for future growth in the sector.