Barabanki: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday launched Kisan Pathshala 8.0 at Daulatpur village in Barabanki district, stressing that the protection of soil health is essential for safeguarding not only humanity but the entire ecosystem. Addressing farmers at the Progressive Farmers’ Conference and the “Kheti Ki Baat Khet Par” programme, the Chief Minister highlighted sustainable agriculture, reduced input costs, and scientific farming practices as the foundation of long-term agricultural prosperity.
Natural and Scientific Farming Key to Future Growth
CM Yogi underlined that the National Vision of Natural Farming, promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflects the philosophy of nurturing the earth while ensuring food security. He said farmers’ incomes naturally rise when quality seeds, fertilisers, irrigation facilities and modern technologies are made available on time.
Launching the Rabi season’s Kisan Pathshala 8.0 directly from the fields, he discussed Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural progress, the importance of multi-cropping systems, technological innovation, transparency in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism, and efforts aimed at enhancing farmers’ incomes.
Uttar Pradesh’s Major Role in National Food Supply
The Chief Minister visited exhibitions showcasing advanced crops, modern farm equipment, FPO-based models and local innovations. He described Daulatpur’s advanced farming practices as a model for other districts. Highlighting the state’s contribution, CM Yogi said Uttar Pradesh accounts for 11 per cent of India’s cultivable land but contributes 21 per cent to the country’s total food grain supply.
He added that fertile land, abundant water resources and improved connectivity have injected new energy into the agriculture sector, while seed-to-market support has helped increase productivity and reduce costs.
Irrigation, Technology and Market Reforms Boost Farm Sector
CM Yogi noted that initiatives such as soil health cards, crop insurance, timely sugarcane payments, expansion of agricultural mandis and food processing infrastructure have provided major relief to farmers. Over the past eight years, MSP payments have been directly transferred to farmers’ bank accounts, eliminating middlemen.
Significant strides have also been made in irrigation through micro-irrigation systems, canal networks, solar pumps and water conservation measures. Technologies like drone spraying, weed management, soil testing and natural farming have connected farmers with modern agricultural practices.
Agricultural Growth and World Bank–Assisted Projects
The Chief Minister said that with World Bank assistance, a ₹4,000-crore UP AgriS project is being implemented to improve agriculture in 28 low-productivity districts, especially in Purvanchal and Bundelkhand. Advanced seeds and techniques are being developed in line with the state’s nine agro-climatic zones.
He added that since 2017, record production levels and transparent systems have helped raise the agricultural growth rate from 8.6 per cent to 17.7 per cent.
Examples of Progressive Farmers Inspire Others
CM Yogi cited examples of progressive farmers producing 250 quintals of potatoes per acre and bananas worth ₹2 lakh through low-cost, high-output farming models. The FPO-based cooperative farming approach is gaining momentum, he said, adding that achievements of Padma Shri awardee Ramsharan Verma and others serve as inspiration for farmers across the state.
Focus on Farmer Education and Innovation
The Chief Minister said the objective of Kisan Pathshala is to understand real challenges faced by farmers and to deliver practical, cost-effective solutions directly to them. He urged farmers to continue innovative practices and make optimal use of Uttar Pradesh’s fertile land.
Padma Shri Ramsharan Verma, welcoming the Chief Minister, described small and marginal farmers as the state’s real strength and credited government support for his success. IFFCO Chairman Dilip Sanghani stressed the importance of integrating cooperation with agriculture.
State Leaders Highlight Agricultural Transformation
Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi said it was a rare occasion where the Chief Minister interacted with farmers directly in the fields. He noted that Daulatpur has emerged as a model village due to multi-cropping and technological adoption. While the Prime Minister has set a goal of doubling farmers’ income, Uttar Pradesh is moving towards tripling it, he added.
Major Achievements in Crops and Farmer Welfare
CM Yogi said Uttar Pradesh contributes 35 per cent to India’s wheat production and 55 per cent to sugarcane output. Sugarcane MSP has been fixed at ₹400, with ₹2.92 lakh crore paid to farmers over the last eight years. The state has 122 operational sugar mills, and ethanol production has increased from 41 crore litres to 182 crore litres.
Uttar Pradesh also leads the country in fruit and vegetable production. About 2.86 crore farmers are benefiting from the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. A seed park named after Bharat Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh is being established in Lucknow, and agricultural science centres are being upgraded across the state.
Distribution of Benefits and Farmer Felicitation
During the event, the Chief Minister distributed tractor keys, cheques and approval letters, and honoured several progressive farmers. A short film highlighting the state’s agricultural initiatives was also screened. The programme witnessed participation from public representatives, officials and agricultural experts, marking a strong push towards sustainable and farmer-centric agricultural development in Uttar Pradesh.
