JUNE 02: On the fifth day of the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited Piprakothi in East Champaran, Bihar, to engage with local farmers and reaffirm the government’s commitment to agricultural development. Addressing a large gathering at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, the Minister paid homage to Champaran’s historic significance, recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s first Satyagraha movement launched from this sacred land.
Chouhan emphasized that the role of the Agriculture Minister is to serve the farmers, who form the backbone of the Indian economy. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India relies on a prosperous and modern agricultural sector.
The Minister interacted with litchi growers, who expressed concern over the fruit’s short shelf life, which leads to post-harvest losses. In response, Chouhan assured the government’s support and directed ICAR scientists to urgently develop techniques to increase litchi longevity. He also proposed expanding cold storage infrastructure to support fruit preservation.
Highlighting the success of maize cultivation in Bihar, Chouhan pointed to the rise in yield—from 23–24 quintals per hectare to 50–60 quintals—and increased market prices due to growing demand for ethanol production. He emphasized the importance of diversifying crop cultivation, urging a shift toward fruits, vegetables, and floriculture, ensuring food security for all 1.45 billion Indians.
Chouhan condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, asserting that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India responded swiftly by targeting terrorist bases. He declared that the Indus Waters Treaty has been annulled, stating, “Blood and water cannot flow together—India’s water is for Indian farmers.”
He promised strict action against manufacturers of fake agrochemicals, ensuring farmer protection. The Minister explained that the ongoing campaign aims to bridge the gap between research and the field, with over 16,000 scientists engaging directly with farmers across villages.
In conclusion, Chouhan reiterated the motto ‘One Nation–One Agriculture–One Team’ and shared plans to promote Bihar’s flattened rice (chidwa) in global markets. He ended by saying, “Annadata Sukhi Bhavah—if our food providers are happy, the nation will flourish.”
The event saw participation from MP Radha Mohan Singh, local leaders, scientists, and hundreds of enthusiastic farmers.