Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Nurpur Bet village in Ludhiana, Punjab, where he engaged with farmers at a Kisan Chaupal and reviewed live demonstrations of advanced agricultural machinery. The visit also included a stop at the ‘Samanyu Honey’ Beekeeping Centre in Doraha village, highlighting the government’s focus on sustainable agricultural practices and rural livelihoods.
Machinery Demonstrations and Agricultural Innovations
At Nurpur Bet, Shri Chouhan witnessed firsthand the effectiveness of the Super Straw Management System (SSMS)-fitted combine harvester for paddy harvesting. This system cuts, chops, and evenly spreads paddy straw across the field, enabling easier and eco-friendly residue management, thereby eliminating the need for stubble burning. The Minister also reviewed the Happy Smart Seeder machine, an advanced technology for wheat sowing that simultaneously covers the stubble, compacts soil, and places seeds efficiently. Shri Chouhan stressed that these modern machines save farmers labor, time, and costs, while promoting sustainability.
Advocating for Scientific Residue Management
The Union Minister praised Nurpur Bet farmers for abstaining from stubble burning since 2017 and adopting scientific residue management practices. He explained that proper stubble management and direct seeding methods gradually enhance soil fertility by increasing nitrogen content and reducing dependence on urea. Farmers can expect crop yields to rise by about two quintals per acre over the next couple of years. Shri Chouhan appealed to all farmers to follow eco-friendly agricultural practices to prevent environmental pollution.
Promoting Apiculture and Rural Development
Shri Chouhan’s visit to the ‘Samanyu Honey’ Beekeeping Centre exemplified the promotion of diversified income sources through sustainable rural enterprises. He engaged with local beekeepers, reviewed innovations in apiculture, and discussed government schemes aimed at supporting honey production and strengthening rural livelihoods. The Minister assured continued assistance to scale such eco-friendly activities and empower rural communities economically.
Conclusion: Agriculture
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s visit underscored the Government of India’s commitment to modernizing agriculture through advanced technology, promoting environmental sustainability, and facilitating rural employment. By advocating for scientific residue management and supporting rural enterprises like apiculture, the government aims to forge a green, prosperous, and resilient agricultural sector in Punjab and beyond.
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Source: PIB
