Haryana Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana stresses on soil health, straw management in pre-Budget meet

Rana chaired a pre-Budget consultation meeting for the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department in Chandigarh today. Senior officers presented details on last year’s budget utilisation for central and state agricultural schemes, the current financial position, and projected expenditure for the coming year.

He reviewed progress on the “Mera Pani Meri Virasat” scheme, prioritising water conservation. Promoting alternatives to water-intensive crops such as paddy is essential, he said. He also directed officers to raise farmer awareness about high-yield, low-water options.

Rana emphasised scientific, eco-friendly management of paddy straw and crop residues. To curb stubble burning and pollution, farmers need timely access to machinery, technical support and incentives.

On the Soil Health Card Scheme, he insisted soil testing must go beyond formality to offer practical guidance on fertiliser use, crop selection and productivity—from sowing to harvest. Officers should maintain regular farmer contact to implement recommendations.

Rana stressed the need to make farms self-reliant in terms of manure and water, stating that balanced use of natural resources is the foundation of sustainable agriculture. He also instructed officials to encourage farmers towards organic farming so that cultivation costs are reduced, soil fertility is maintained, and consumers receive chemical-free and nutritious food grains.

He said empowering farmers economically, boosting incomes and making agriculture profitable is government’s priority.