Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the Sixth International Agronomy Congress in New Delhi, marking the beginning of a three-day event dedicated to strengthening the future of agronomy and agricultural sustainability. Opening the conference, he stressed that integrated farming must become a major focus in the coming years, especially for marginal farmers who depend on small holdings for their livelihood. He emphasised that the next phase of agricultural progress will require clear, practical planning supported by scientific research.

Chouhan urged agricultural researchers and agronomy experts to prepare a five-year roadmap for promoting integrated farming systems. According to him, this approach would help farmers increase income stability, diversify their production and reduce dependence on singular crops. He added that India’s agricultural landscape continues to transform, but large sections of the population still rely on farming for survival.

Nearly 46 per cent of the nation’s population is directly connected to agriculture, making it essential for policymakers and scientists to work together on long-term strategies. Chouhan stated that future farming practices must be built on accurate data, scientific methods and continuous research. He noted that diversification of crops, improved soil health, and region-specific solutions will play critical roles in helping farmers adapt to climate shifts and market challenges.

Union Minister brings attention to research-driven planning and the evolving role of agronomy

The Minister highlighted that agronomy is no longer limited to traditional crop management. Instead, it has expanded into an essential scientific discipline that influences food systems, environmental stability and long-term sustainability. He said that technology and data-based decision-making should guide farming methods, allowing farmers to reduce risks and handle unpredictable weather patterns.

He pointed out that integrated farming combines crops, livestock, fisheries and other components into a single, efficient system. This approach, he said, could help farmers generate multiple sources of income while improving soil quality and resource use. Chouhan called on scientists to ensure that their recommendations reach farmers in a form they can understand and apply.

The three-day congress is set to feature plenary sessions, theme-based symposia, keynote addresses, poster presentations and an exhibition. It will also include a dedicated conference for young scientists and students, giving them a platform to present ideas and develop skills for future agricultural research. This year’s theme, “Re-envisioning Agronomy for Smart Agro-Food Systems and Environmental Protection,” reflects the rising global need for sustainable solutions.

Experts attending the event will discuss challenges related to food security, climate resilience, soil degradation and digital agriculture. Several sessions will examine how smart farming tools, precision inputs and improved crop varieties can support sustainable food systems. The Minister said that such discussions must lead to real outcomes that can help farmers adapt to modern challenges.

Union Minister underlines the importance of cooperation between scientists and farmers

Chouhan stated that the success of agronomy depends on the connection between scientific work and ground-level farming. He said that new ideas must be tested, refined and communicated clearly so that farmers can adopt them without hesitation. As farming conditions change rapidly across states, region-specific advice becomes more important.

Researchers attending the event were urged to examine soil conditions, climate variations and cropping patterns more closely. The Minister noted that farming cannot rely on uniform solutions across the country. Instead, tailored recommendations will help ensure that farmers get the maximum benefit from new technologies and updated practices.

Union Minister emphasises the need to prepare farmers for future environmental and economic shifts

Chouhan said that the agriculture sector must be prepared for factors like shifting monsoon patterns, rising temperatures and market fluctuations. He encouraged scientists to focus on resilience-based planning, which would support farmers through both environmental risks and economic uncertainties.

The sessions scheduled over the next three days aim to offer practical insights into strengthening crop systems, improving water management and expanding diversification. Officials noted that the event brings together experts from India and abroad, providing an opportunity for knowledge exchange and collaborative action.  Also Read: Pakistan paramilitary attack leaves 3 dead and exposes new signs of rising instability

Conclusion

The Union Minister’s address set the tone for a forward-looking agronomy congress, stressing integrated farming, data-driven decisions and long-term planning. With a focus on research and farmer welfare, the event aims to contribute meaningful direction to India’s agricultural future.