Beyond tradition: Agri minister pushes for modern farming

Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar has called upon farmers to move beyond traditional methods and adopt innovative agricultural practices to enhance productivity and uplift rural incomes. Emphasising the export potential of basmati rice grown in the Kangra district, he urged farmers to focus on improving the quality of their produce.

Addressing a workshop on agriculture at Matour in Kangra, Kumar stressed the need for farmers to stay connected with the agriculture department to keep pace with modern farming technologies. “Farming practices must evolve with time. Farmers should regularly consult agriculture experts and adopt techniques that can boost both yield and income,” he said.

Highlighting the scope of basmati cultivation in the region, the minister said paddy is cultivated on over 32,000 hectares in Kangra district, with around 15 per cent of the area dedicated to basmati varieties. Jwali, Fatehpur, Indora and Rait blocks are the frontrunners in basmati production, followed by Kangra, Nagrota Bagwan and Bhawarna. However, he emphasised that the quality of basmati must be further improved to meet global export standards.

To support the rural economy, Kumar noted that the state government is procuring organic produce at attractive minimum support prices — Rs 60 per kg for wheat, Rs 40 for maize and Rs 90 for raw turmeric. Additionally, buffalo milk and cow milk are being purchased at Rs 61 and Rs 51 per litre respectively, providing direct support to farmers and livestock rearers and encouraging organic and sustainable farming.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to village development, the minister said infrastructure projects like the construction of panchayat buildings, establishment of Lokmitra Kendras and economic incentives for farmers are being actively implemented as part of a broader rural empowerment strategy.