New Delhi: On August 15, 2025, Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan met and interacted with select farmers invited as ‘Special Guests’ to the Independence Day celebrations in Delhi. The meeting, held at Pusa Campus, reinforced the government’s commitment to uplifting Indian farmers, promoting Swadeshi products, and ensuring that national policies always prioritize agricultural interests.
Swadeshi Adopted as a National Movement
Shri Chouhan administered a pledge championing the use of Swadeshi (indigenous) goods, echoing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call. He emphasized:
“If we buy Swadeshi products, we ourselves will provide employment to millions of people.”
He urged farmers and citizens alike to patronize locally made goods and those produced by women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), explaining that such choices spark employment and support rural livelihoods. He used the example of earthen lamps from potters for Diwali, pointing out that “not only will our homes shimmer with light, but theirs too will shine with the light of employment.”
Assurance on Trade Agreements
The Minister gave a firm assurance regarding international agreements, stating:
“There will be no agreement that will harm the interests of our farmers.”
He cited India’s recent deal with the UK as beneficial—offering zero-duty market access for Indian agricultural products. At the same time, he stressed that India would never accept trade terms that allow a surge of cheap foreign produce to harm domestic farmers.
Tribute to Freedom Fighters and Soldiers
Shri Chouhan paid homage to the sacrifices of freedom fighters and praised the valor of Indian soldiers. Referring to “Operation Sindoor,” he highlighted India’s resolve to respond effectively to provocations and maintain peace and security.
Direct Government Engagement with Farmers
The Minister stressed that government support should be visible in people’s lives. He cited examples of direct interventions, including taking action against companies whose products damaged farmers’ crops and ensuring strict accountability.
Scientific Support and Future Campaigns
In a significant initiative, agricultural scientists—”taking the lab to the land”—have visited villages, working alongside farmers to boost productivity. Shri Chouhan announced that scientists will again visit villages from October 3 to 18 to support farmers for the Rabi (winter) crop, and a two-day conference is planned to share best practices and address challenges.
Agricultural Policy Principles
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Farmer’s welfare and the national interest will not be compromised in any circumstance.
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No international trade deal will be accepted if it places Indian farmers at a disadvantage compared with large foreign farms.
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All schemes and interventions will be made farmer-centric, with transparency and accountability.
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Agriculture remains the “backbone” of India’s economy, and farmer are its “soul.”
Event Participation
The event also saw the presence of Ministers of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur and Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Agriculture Secretary Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, ICAR DG Dr. M.L. Jat, other senior officials, and a vote of thanks by Joint Secretary Smt. Perin Devi.
Conclusion
Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s interaction with farmer at the Independence Day celebration reaffirms the government’s unwavering support for the farming community. By advocating for Swadeshi, reinforcing the sanctity of domestic agriculture in global trade, and delivering science-driven support, the government is actively working to empower India’s backbone—the farmer.
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Source: PIB
