Chouhan places special emphasis on increasing cotton production

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan called for special attention to water conservation, moisture management, inter-cropping and alternative crop patterns. He said a separate and practical strategy should be devised for every risk-prone district so that farmers face no difficulty during the Kharif season and can continue farming smoothly.

During a high-level weekly agriculture review meeting at Krishi Bhavan here on Tuesday, Chouhan conducted a detailed review of preparations across the country for the Kharif 2026 season.

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Along with this, in the context of possible El Niño conditions, Chouhan placed special emphasis on increasing cotton production, achieving self-reliance (atmanirbharta) in pulses and advance contingency plans for low-rainfall districts and gave a clear message that protecting farmers’ interests is the government’s top priority under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The meeting focused on ensuring that all necessary steps are taken well in advance to safeguard agriculture and farmers from any adverse weather conditions that may arise during the season.

During the meeting discussing the potential El Niño situation, the Union Agriculture Minister gave clear directions to fully prepare in advance for districts likely to experience low or uneven rainfall. He said such districts should be clearly identified and crop-wise contingency plans should be prepared in coordination with state governments. This will ensure that farmers receive immediate alternatives, advice and support during any weather challenge.

Chouhan also directed that in the 9-10 states where the impact of El Niño may be relatively higher, coordinated meetings should be organised with District Magistrates, Agriculture Departments, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and other extension systems of the identified districts.

He said in these meetings, the entire situation at the district level should be made clear and awareness campaigns should be carried out among farmers so that every farmer knows what precautions and which crop options are safer for his area.

The Union Agriculture Minister said instead of exaggerating the danger, a calm, trustworthy and solution-oriented message based on scientific analysis should reach the farmers, and this is the government’s priority. This approach will help build confidence among farmers and ensure better preparedness for the upcoming season, he said.