New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled 109 new high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi on Sunday. This initiative represents a significant advancement in India’s agricultural sector, aimed at enhancing productivity and adapting to climate change.
During the event, PM Modi interacted with farmers and scientists, emphasizing the importance of these new varieties. He highlighted how these innovations would help reduce farmers' costs and benefit the environment. Modi also discussed the rising importance of millets and the shift towards more nutritious food options.The Prime Minister stressed the advantages of natural farming and the growing public trust in organic practices. He noted that the demand for organic foods is increasing, reflecting a broader trend towards healthier and sustainable agriculture.
Farmers at the event expressed gratitude for the government’s push towards natural farming and acknowledged the efforts of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in spreading awareness. Modi encouraged KVKs to regularly update farmers about the benefits of the new crop varieties to maximize their impact. He also praised the scientists for their role in developing these new crops, which align with his previous recommendations to mainstream underutilized crops.
The 109 varieties released include 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops. The field crops comprise cereals, millets, forage crops, oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, and other potential crops. The horticultural varieties encompass fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, tubers, spices, flowers, and medicinal plants.
This release follows the recent Union Budget announcement, which highlighted the government’s commitment to high-yielding and climate-resilient crops. As part of its broader strategy, the government aims to introduce 1 crore farmers to natural farming over the next two years, supported by certification and branding efforts.
Additionally, the government plans to establish 10,000 bio-input resource centres to support this transition. To achieve self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds, there will be a focus on enhancing production, storage, and marketing. This strategy supports the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative and aims to boost the production of oilseeds like mustard, groundnut, sesame, soybean, and sunflower.
The government is also promoting green and sustainable agricultural practices to address environmental concerns and advance green agriculture.
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