Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday said that ensuring food security, improving farmers’ livelihoods and providing nutritious food to citizens remain the top priorities of the Government of India. Addressing a press conference at the Pusa Complex in New Delhi during the Kharif Conclave-2026, the minister underlined the Centre’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture sector through better planning, technology and coordination with states.
The National Conference on Agriculture for the Kharif Campaign-2026 is being organised at the NASC Complex, Pusa, on May 28 and 29. Agriculture ministers from various states, senior officials, scientists, representatives of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and agricultural experts are participating in the two-day conclave.
Shri Chouhan described the gathering as a meeting of the country’s “Team Agriculture”, which includes not only the Union Government but also state governments, scientists and farming stakeholders. He stressed that agriculture is primarily a state subject and that the Centre’s role is to support states through policy initiatives, coordination and financial assistance.
The minister said extensive discussions are being held on preparations for both Kharif and Rabi crops, seed availability, increasing seed replacement rates and the implementation of agriculture-related missions at the grassroots level. He added that the government had already held virtual consultations with states before the conclave to assess region-specific challenges and preparedness.
Highlighting the importance of regional planning, Shri Chouhan said farming practices and climatic conditions differ across the country, making region-wise discussions more effective. He informed that regional agriculture conferences have already been held in Jaipur, Lucknow and Bhubaneswar, while two more are planned for the North-East and South India.
The government is also considering organising future agricultural conferences based on agro-climatic zones identified by ICAR. According to the minister, India can broadly be divided into eight agro-climatic zones, and such a model would help tailor agricultural policies and schemes according to local conditions and requirements.
Shri Chouhan also announced that India has achieved record foodgrain production in 2025-26. He credited farmers, scientists, state governments and the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the achievement. The country’s estimated total foodgrain production has reached 3,765.63 lakh tonnes, around 188 lakh tonnes higher than the previous year.
Rice production has touched a record 1,540.24 lakh tonnes, making India the world’s leading rice producer ahead of China. Wheat production has been estimated at 1,206.57 lakh tonnes, while maize output has reached 550.92 lakh tonnes, both registering all-time highs.
The minister further stated that oilseed production has also witnessed a major increase this year. Total oilseed production is estimated at 430.59 lakh tonnes. Groundnut production has reached 130.74 lakh tonnes, while rapeseed-mustard production has touched 137.68 lakh tonnes, both setting new records. Pulses production has also increased significantly, with further growth expected in the coming years.
During the conclave, special focus will be given to national missions on pulses and oilseeds, along with discussions on horticulture development and the Cotton Mission. Shri Chouhan said climate change remains one of the biggest challenges for Indian agriculture, as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall and extreme weather events are rapidly changing farming conditions.
To address these challenges, discussions are being held on natural farming, soil health management and balanced use of fertilisers. The minister observed that many farmers overuse fertilisers due to lack of awareness, making education and scientific guidance essential.
The conclave will also deliberate on integrated farming systems aimed at improving the income of small and marginal farmers. Topics such as agricultural credit, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), Agri Infrastructure Fund, PM-AASHA Yojana, digital agriculture, Farmer ID and strengthening of FPOs are also part of the agenda.
Shri Chouhan said a comprehensive national and state-level roadmap for the upcoming Kharif season will be prepared after discussions and presentations by state agriculture ministers. He added that the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” will also receive special attention, with coordinated efforts planned between the Centre and states to achieve agricultural targets and ensure sustainable farming growth.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
