New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi, where both leaders discussed key agricultural challenges and strategies for improving farmer welfare in the state.
The high-level meeting focused on paddy procurement, crop diversification, water conservation, and sustainable agricultural practices in Punjab.
Centre and Punjab to Work Together on Key Agriculture Missions
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured full cooperation from the Central Government for Punjab’s agriculture sector.
He said both governments will work together on major initiatives including:
- Cotton Mission
- Pulse Mission
- Oilseed Mission
- Horticulture development programs
He also announced that a special committee would be formed to address concerns related to hybrid paddy seeds and ensure smooth procurement operations.
Punjab Pushes Crop Diversification to Save Groundwater
CM Bhagwant Mann highlighted Punjab’s ongoing efforts to promote crop diversification away from paddy cultivation.
He said the state is actively encouraging crops such as:
- Maize
- Pulses
- Oilseeds
- Sunflower
- Bajra
The aim is to reduce pressure on groundwater, which has reached critical levels in many regions of the state.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Health
Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that Punjab plays a vital role in India’s food security and remains the country’s “food bowl.”
He stressed the need for:
- Sustainable farming practices
- Balanced fertilizer usage
- Improved soil health
- Climate-resilient agriculture
The Union Minister said the Centre will support Punjab in ensuring that farmers do not suffer losses due to crop diversification efforts.
Wheat Procurement Target of 125 Lakh Metric Tonnes
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann informed that the state is set to achieve its wheat procurement target of 125 lakh metric tonnes this season.
He reiterated Punjab’s commitment to maintaining its leading role in national foodgrain production.
Centre Assures Financial and Policy Support to Punjab
Responding to Punjab’s demand for additional financial assistance, the Union Minister assured continued central support through agriculture, irrigation, and farmer welfare schemes.
He also said the proposal to include a Punjab representative in the Central Seed Committee under the Seed Bill 2025 will be considered.
The meeting between Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted strong Centre-State cooperation on agriculture reforms. Both leaders emphasized crop diversification, water conservation, and sustainable farming to secure the future of Punjab’s agriculture sector and strengthen farmer welfare.
