Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today chaired a high-level review meeting in New Delhi to assess overall preparations for the Kharif 2026 season and the broader agriculture scenario, with special focus on possible El Nino conditions.
Chouhan directed that weekly review meetings be held to closely monitor the evolving situation. He stressed the need to identify districts likely to face low or uneven rainfall in advance and prepare district-wise contingency plans in coordination with state governments. The minister also called for regular meetings involving District Magistrates, agriculture departments and Krishi Vigyan Kendras to ensure timely advisories and support reach farmers.
Emphasising a science-based and solution-oriented approach, Chouhan said the government’s priority is to safeguard farmers’ interests under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that clear and practical communication should be ensured so that farmers remain informed and confident during adverse weather situations.
During the review, special emphasis was placed on boosting cotton production through a mission-mode strategy. The minister called for promotion of scientific farming practices, use of suitable seed varieties, inter-cropping and moisture conservation techniques to improve both productivity and farmer incomes.
Chouhan also highlighted the government’s focus on achieving self-reliance in pulses, including tur, urad and moong, through expansion of cultivation area, better seed availability and stronger technical support systems to reduce import dependence.
A detailed review was also undertaken on fertiliser availability, reservoir levels and mandi prices. The minister directed officials to ensure uninterrupted supply across states and to address any local-level shortages proactively.
The Agriculture Minister further stressed the importance of stronger coordination between agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, KVKs and state agriculture departments so that research and advisory inputs effectively reach farmers in time for the Kharif 2026 season.
