The National Kharif Conference 2026 concluded in New Delhi with a strong message of cooperation, accountability, and action-oriented agricultural reform, marking what many participants described as a landmark moment in India’s farming sector. Held on May 28 and 29 at the prestigious PUSA campus, the two-day conference brought together Agriculture Ministers from 22 states on a single platform for the first time, alongside senior officials, agricultural scientists, and policymakers.
Chaired by Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the conference focused on strengthening India’s agricultural future through coordinated efforts between the Centre and states. Discussions covered a broad range of issues, including Kharif season preparedness, fertilizer management, natural farming, self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds, water conservation, and the proposed nationwide “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” campaign.
The event went beyond routine administrative reviews and evolved into a national forum for policy coordination and practical implementation. During the first day, senior officials from agriculture and horticulture departments reviewed crop planning, seed availability, fertilizer supplies, and region-specific agricultural challenges. On the second day, state Agriculture Ministers participated in extensive deliberations aimed at creating a common roadmap for sustainable agricultural growth.
One of the conference’s most significant outcomes was the commitment by state Agriculture Ministers to personally adopt and experiment with natural farming practices on their own farms. The initiative is expected to encourage farmers to explore sustainable agricultural methods through practical demonstrations by policymakers themselves. Shri Chouhan emphasized that leadership by example can play a crucial role in building confidence among farming communities.
Addressing participants, the Union Minister highlighted the importance of protecting agricultural land and preserving soil health for future generations. He stressed that agriculture should be viewed not merely as a production activity but as a national responsibility linked to environmental sustainability, food security, and rural prosperity.
A major theme of the conference was the balanced and scientific use of fertilizers. Shri Chouhan clarified that the objective is not to eliminate chemical fertilizers entirely but to promote their judicious use in combination with sustainable farming practices. To support this goal, participants proposed transforming the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” into a nationwide campaign involving the Central Government, state governments, agricultural universities, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and the scientific community.
The campaign is expected to focus on raising awareness about soil health, reducing excessive fertilizer usage, and encouraging environmentally responsible farming practices. The Union Minister also called for dedicated monitoring mechanisms and control rooms to ensure effective implementation and measurable results.
The conference further highlighted the need for India to achieve greater self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds. Participants discussed strategies to increase domestic production, reduce import dependence, and improve farmer incomes through better crop planning and resource management. Soil conservation, efficient use of agricultural inputs, and long-term productivity enhancement were identified as key priorities.
Another important aspect of the discussions was the role of communication and public participation. Shri Chouhan urged state governments and agricultural institutions to actively engage farmers through awareness campaigns and outreach programs. He stressed that agricultural reforms would achieve lasting success only when transformed into people-driven movements supported by widespread public involvement.
The conference also witnessed the participation of Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, a strong advocate of natural farming. During a special session, he shared experiences and encouraged wider adoption of sustainable agricultural practices across the country.
Concluding the event, Shri Chouhan praised the active participation and commitment displayed by ministers and officials. He noted that the conference reflected a shared determination to move beyond policy discussions and deliver tangible outcomes for farmers.
The National Kharif Conference 2026 is being viewed as a significant milestone in India’s agricultural journey. With a collective pledge to convert ideas into action, the conference has laid the foundation for stronger coordination, sustainable farming practices, and farmer-centric reforms aimed at ensuring long-term agricultural growth and rural prosperity.
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]
