Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday inaugurated the Regional Agriculture Conference (North Zone) in Lucknow, where he highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s rapid progress in the agriculture sector driven by technology, scientific planning, and coordinated efforts between the central and state governments.
He said the state is witnessing a structural transformation in farming, with increased productivity, higher farmer incomes, and stronger integration of value addition in agriculture.
‘Lab to Land’ Model Driving Agricultural Revolution
The Chief Minister said the “Lab to Land” concept has now been successfully implemented, ensuring that scientific research reaches farmers directly.
This has enabled farmers to adopt:
- Modern farming techniques
- Improved seed varieties
- Scientific crop management practices
He noted that this approach has significantly improved per-hectare productivity and expanded multi-cropping practices across the state.
Agro-Climatic Zoning for Better Policy Implementation
CM Yogi emphasized that agricultural policies must align with different agro-climatic zones for maximum effectiveness. Uttar Pradesh has been divided into nine such zones, each receiving tailored agricultural support.
He credited initiatives under the “Viksit Krishi Abhiyan” and thanked Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for promoting the nationwide implementation of the “Lab to Land” approach.
Strong Growth in Production and Farmer Income
The Chief Minister highlighted record agricultural output in Uttar Pradesh, stating that the state has become one of India’s leading food producers.
Current production figures include:
- Wheat: 425 lakh metric tonnes
- Rice: 211 lakh metric tonnes
- Potato: 245 lakh metric tonnes
- Oilseeds: 48 lakh metric tonnes
He also said vegetable production has shown strong growth, contributing to increased farmer income and economic stability.
Technology and Research Boosting Farming Output
CM Yogi said technology is playing a crucial role in transforming agriculture. Research institutions such as the International Rice Research Institute in Varanasi are helping develop high-yield and climate-resilient crop varieties.
He noted that in some regions, rice yield has increased to 100 quintals per hectare, compared to earlier levels of 50–60 quintals.
Focus on Value Addition and Agro-Industrial Growth
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of linking agriculture with value addition and agro-industrial development.
He said that agriculture’s share in the economy has declined over time, but integrating it with manufacturing and food processing can significantly boost growth and farmer earnings.
Plans are underway to expand agro-processing units, including an International Potato Centre in Agra, which will support potato-producing regions.
Irrigation, Power and Infrastructure Driving Farm Expansion
CM Yogi highlighted major improvements in rural infrastructure:
- Over 85% of farmland is now irrigated
- Farmers receive 10–12 hours of electricity daily
- Strong road connectivity supports market access
These improvements have enabled farmers to shift from single-crop to multi-crop farming systems.
Promotion of Natural Farming and Climate Resilience
The Chief Minister acknowledged challenges such as El Niño impacts affecting wheat and horticulture crops like mangoes. He stressed the need for:
- Reduced chemical fertilizer usage
- Promotion of natural farming
- Improved seed distribution systems
- Cost-effective farming practices
Success Stories of Progressive Farmers
CM Yogi cited the example of award-winning farmer Ram Saran Verma from Barabanki, who has achieved high yields using low-cost, scientific methods.
He said such farmers are proof that knowledge and innovation can transform agriculture even without high academic qualifications.
Expansion of Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Research Centers
The Chief Minister said that in 2017, Uttar Pradesh had only 69 active Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), many of which were underutilized.
Today, these centers have been strengthened and are actively promoting innovation across all agro-climatic zones through Centres of Excellence.
He also noted that scientific outreach programs now directly connect researchers with farmers in the field.
Record Agricultural Growth in Uttar Pradesh
CM Yogi said the state’s agricultural growth rate has increased significantly from around 8% to nearly 18%, reflecting strong policy implementation and scientific intervention.
He added that coordinated efforts between the Centre and the state have helped improve productivity and farmer confidence.
Uttar Pradesh Emerging as Agricultural Powerhouse
The Chief Minister concluded that Uttar Pradesh is steadily emerging as a leading agricultural economy in India.
With improved irrigation, technology adoption, policy support, and market access, farmers are now earning better incomes and adopting diversified farming practices, strengthening the state’s role in India’s agricultural growth story.
Climate Challenges and Sustainable Farming
Addressing climate-related concerns, the Chief Minister pointed out the impact of El Niño on wheat and horticulture crops, especially mango production.
He emphasized the need to:
- Reduce cultivation costs
- Promote natural farming
- Ensure timely supply of quality seeds
- Minimize chemical fertilizer and pesticide use
