Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, chaired a high-level meeting at Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi, to review and strengthen the functioning of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the country. The meeting brought together senior officials, including Agriculture Secretary Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi and ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat, to deliberate on strategic initiatives for enhancing the KVK network’s efficiency, governance, and impact on small farmers.
Focus on Strengthening the KVK Network
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan noted that India currently has 731 KVKs operating across various districts, serving as the frontline institutions for agricultural technology dissemination, farmer training, and innovation transfer.
He emphasized that while expanding the network, it is equally important to reinforce the existing centres to ensure they deliver greater value to farmers, particularly small and marginal cultivators who rely on KVKs for skill development and scientific guidance.
The Minister stated that KVKs must act as key vehicles for implementing government policies and programmes, ensuring the timely outreach of initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and income diversification for farmers.
Directions on Administrative and Financial Strengthening
During the meeting, Shri Chouhan issued detailed instructions regarding the salaries, allowances, promotions, and retirement benefits of scientists and staff working in KVKs.
He stressed the importance of providing uniform service conditions and adequate facilities across all KVKs to boost morale, professionalism, and operational uniformity.
The Minister directed that officials from ICAR, in coordination with state governments, NITI Aayog, and the Ministry of Finance, take immediate measures to streamline disparities and create an equitable system for all KVK personnel nationwide.
Shri Chouhan also advocated for academic and promotional parity between KVK scientists and other research professionals, citing their vital role in field-level implementation of agricultural research and innovation.
Enhancing Role in Farmer Outreach and Innovation
Underscoring KVKs’ contribution as bridges between laboratories and farmlands, the Union Minister urged officials to equip them with adequate financial, technical, and human resource support.
He called for the development of model KVKs showcasing best practices in integrated farming, natural agriculture, and entrepreneurship development, aligning with national missions such as sustainable agriculture and rural income generation.
The Minister encouraged KVKs to collaborate closely with state agricultural departments, universities, and agribusiness start-ups to foster a culture of innovation, capacity building, and agripreneurship.
Commitment to Empowering Farmers
Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s rural and agricultural backbone, Shri Chouhan said that empowered and efficient KVKs are essential for achieving inclusive agricultural growth.
He affirmed that the enhanced coordination and support framework would not only uplift KVKs but also expand their reach to every farmer, ensuring technology-driven progress and rural prosperity.
Conclusion
The high-level meeting reinforced the central government’s vision to transform Krishi Vigyan Kendras into dynamic hubs of agricultural transformation. By ensuring parity in service conditions, strengthening infrastructure, and equipping KVKs with modern resources, the Ministry aims to make them stronger catalysts for sustainable farming, farmer welfare, and rural innovation across India.
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Source: PIB
