During an inspiring interaction with the scientific and farming communities at ICAR–CCARI in Goa, the Vice President of India delivered a heartfelt message highlighting the vital role of agriculture in shaping the future of the nation. Speaking with warmth and empathy, he acknowledged the dedication of the researchers and farmers present, especially appreciating the passion and progress demonstrated by Director Dr. Parveen Kumar. The Vice President humorously noted his excitement over local innovations, particularly spicy chili-based products, drawing light-hearted laughter from the audience.
He expressed deep admiration for Shri Sanjay Anant Patil, a Padma Shri awardee for his contributions to natural farming, and acknowledged Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat’s unwavering commitment to the practice. Highlighting his own long-standing relationship with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research since his early political career in 1989, he reflected on his continued engagement with agricultural institutions across the country.
With a compassionate tone, the Vice President emphasized that India’s economic and social progress is deeply rooted in rural development and agriculture. He encouraged farmers to move beyond mere production and become active participants in the marketing, value addition, and overall business of agriculture. This, he said, is the path to increasing farmers’ income and transforming them into “agripreneurs.”
He shared moving examples of highly educated individuals, including family members of district officials, who have left prestigious careers to engage in farming and agribusiness. His message was clear: if they can do it, why not farmers and their children? He reminded the audience that no special training is needed to connect with agriculture—it is part of our heritage and instinct.
Stressing the importance of cooperative efforts and government support, he urged corporate entities to use their CSR funds meaningfully for rural and agricultural development. He spoke of the disconnect where villages depend on external sources for vegetables, fruits, and other essentials, which were once produced locally. This shift, he said, needs to be reversed with new-age thinking and technology.
With deep emotion, he discussed how farmers often remain at the mercy of middlemen, citing a powerful anecdote that illustrated how the best quality produce often originates from the farmer’s own home, yet they end up paying a premium for packaged products. The tale brought smiles, but also quiet reflection on the ironies faced by rural producers.
He strongly advocated for direct benefit transfers in subsidy schemes, such as the massive fertilizer subsidy that could greatly benefit farmers if given directly to them. He urged institutions to study and implement systems that ensure support reaches farmers without intermediaries, citing the example of the U.S. where farmer income exceeds that of the average household because of direct aid.
The Vice President also acknowledged the efforts of the current Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, whose proactive outreach to over 730 Krishi Vigyan Kendras has energized the sector. He noted with optimism that India’s agricultural institutions are more active than ever, working toward meaningful change.
As the interaction concluded, his words served as a powerful reminder that true transformation begins from within. Farmers, he said, must recognize their own potential and take charge of their future—because even divine help favors those who help themselves.