Lucknow: A high-level meeting was held at Yojana Bhawan in Lucknow between Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to review agricultural and rural development initiatives in the state.
During the meeting, the Union Minister presented two major official letters to the Chief Minister, marking significant policy decisions for farmers and rural households in Uttar Pradesh.
MSP Procurement Extended for Rabi Crops Till July 8, 2026
In a major relief for farmers, the government approved an extension of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement period for Rabi Marketing Year 2026–27.
- MSP procurement for wheat, gram, and lentils extended from June 24, 2026 to July 8, 2026
- The decision aims to ensure no farmer is forced to sell crops below MSP due to weather delays, mandi congestion, or logistical issues
- The move is expected to directly benefit millions of wheat, gram, and lentil farmers in Uttar Pradesh
The extension was approved considering the welfare of farmers and state government recommendations.
6.18 Lakh Rural Houses Approved Under PM Awas Yojana
Another major announcement was the approval of 6,18,482 pucca houses for Uttar Pradesh under the new phase of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin (PMAY-G).
The scheme is part of the national target to construct 2 crore additional rural houses between 2024–25 and 2028–29.
Key highlights:
- Uttar Pradesh receives one of the largest allocations under the scheme
- Aims to provide permanent housing to economically weaker rural families
- Focus on transparency, time-bound construction, and technology-based monitoring
Officials confirmed that the beneficiary survey in rural areas has already been completed, and implementation will now focus on rapid delivery.
Scientific Agricultural Roadmap for Climate-Resilient Farming
The Union Minister emphasized the need for a scientific and long-term agricultural roadmap for Uttar Pradesh due to climate-related challenges such as El Niño conditions, rising temperatures, and declining groundwater levels.
Key focus areas include:
- Crop diversification based on district-level conditions
- Promotion of short-duration and low-water crops
- Improved irrigation and water conservation systems
- Use of agricultural technology and scientific advisory systems
The roadmap will be jointly developed by central and state governments in coordination with agricultural experts and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Contingency Plan to Protect Farmers from Climate Risks
Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that contingency plans will be prepared for each district to ensure:
- Fields remain productive even during low rainfall conditions
- Farmers’ income is protected through alternative crops
- Real-time advisory support reaches villages
- Crop patterns are adjusted according to soil and water availability
The government’s goal is to ensure that agricultural land does not remain unused despite climatic uncertainties.
UP as a Model State for Agriculture and Rural Development
The Union Minister highlighted that Uttar Pradesh plays a central role in India’s food security, contributing nearly 38% of the country’s wheat production.
He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the aim is to make Uttar Pradesh a national model for agriculture and rural development through integrated planning and policy execution.
Strong Coordination Between Centre and State Government
The meeting witnessed participation from senior state leaders including:
- Deputy Chief Minister and Rural Development Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya
- Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi
- Other senior ministers and officials from both central and state departments
Officials emphasized that agriculture and rural development are now being treated as a single integrated vision, ensuring better coordination and faster implementation of schemes.
Major Push for Rural Transformation in Uttar Pradesh
The Lucknow high-level meeting marks a significant step toward strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural and rural economy. With extended MSP procurement, large-scale rural housing approval, and a scientific farming roadmap, the state is set for major structural improvements in both farmer welfare and rural infrastructure.
The combined efforts of the central and state governments aim to ensure:
- Stronger farmers
- Prosperous villages
- Sustainable agricultural growth
- Improved quality of life for rural households
Uttar Pradesh is increasingly being positioned as a key national model for agricultural innovation and rural development in India.
