Shri Chouhan assured the farming community that every rupee of compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) will be disbursed transparently and in full. He emphasised that no farmer should feel neglected during times of crop loss, adding, “If required, we will directly consult farmers to ensure that every rupee of their rightful claim reaches them.”
The Minister noted that erratic rainfall this year had affected many regions of Maharashtra. He announced that the State Government, supported by the Centre, would extend immediate compensation and financial assistance through the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). He further assured that a special relief package would be considered if required.
Developing climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture
Addressing challenges posed by climate change, Shri Chouhan stressed the urgent need to develop climate-resilient seed varieties capable of withstanding both excessive rainfall and drought. “We must safeguard farmers from unpredictable weather by promoting innovative seed research,” he said.
He announced that under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, agricultural scientists from across the country have stepped out of their laboratories to work directly with farmers in the field a first-of-its-kind initiative to connect research with grassroots farming.
Natural and organic farming to be promoted
The Union Minister called for a gradual transition from chemical-intensive farming to natural and organic methods. “Overuse of fertilisers and pesticides is degrading our soil and reducing productivity. To ensure food security for future generations, we must promote cow-based and natural farming,” he said.
He also highlighted that the government is considering direct transfer of fertiliser subsidies to farmers’ accounts to improve transparency and prevent misuse.
Expanding opportunities through crop diversification
Encouraging farmers to diversify beyond traditional crops, Shri Chouhan said, “Farmers should integrate fruit, flower, and vegetable cultivation, along with agroforestry, to increase income.” He added that integrated farming systems combining agriculture with beekeeping, dairy, fisheries, and poultry would help small and marginal farmers improve profitability.
Water conservation and housing initiatives
Highlighting the importance of water conservation, the Minister said that 65% of MGNREGA funds would be utilised in drought-prone blocks for irrigation and water management projects. This, he said, will help mitigate drought and boost irrigation coverage.
Discussing the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin, he revealed that 30 lakh houses have already been sanctioned to Maharashtra, with all remaining eligible families to be included after a new survey. “Every deserving family will have a roof over their head,” he assured.
Crackdown on fake fertilisers and seeds
In a stern warning to those producing or selling counterfeit agricultural inputs, Shri Chouhan announced that a new Bill against fake fertilisers, seeds, and pesticides will be introduced in the upcoming Budget Session. “Strict action will be taken against anyone who jeopardises farmers’ livelihoods by selling spurious products,” he declared.
Empowering farmers through fair pricing and processing
Shri Chouhan advocated for cluster-based farming to facilitate direct procurement by traders and minimise middlemen. He also spoke about developing village-level processing units in coordination with the Ministry of Food Processing, led by Shri Chirag Paswan, to promote value addition and local entrepreneurship.
He concluded his address by extending greetings to all farmers and citizens on the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’, calling it a moment of national pride and unity.