The national-level agricultural fair 'Unnat Krishi Mahotsav' concluded in Raisen with great enthusiasm, innovation, and the participation of thousands of farmers. The closing ceremony was marked by the presence of Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development  Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan. While Nitin Gadkari presented a broad vision for road development, modern agricultural technologies, water conservation, alternative energy, and rural prosperity, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reiterated his firm commitment to implementing the 'seed-to-market' agricultural roadmap at the ground level.

Key Announcements on Regional Development

Responding to regional demands raised by Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Shri Nitin Gadkari made several important announcements. He agreed in principle to move forward with the Raisen Ring Road/Eastern Bypass project, including preparation of the Detailed Project Report and facilitating land acquisition by the state government. He also expressed support for the beautification of bridges and assured cooperation on other feasible road infrastructure proposals.

Knowledge Must Be Converted into Wealth

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nitin Gadkari said he had come to the event not as a minister but as a farmer. He emphasized that the future of agriculture is closely linked with technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, weather stations, satellite-based systems, drones, and nano urea. He urged farmers to adapt to these changes. He stated that knowledge is the greatest strength, and converting knowledge into wealth is the most important need in agriculture today. He encouraged farmers to adopt innovation, research, and technology-driven practices to increase productivity while reducing costs. He also highlighted that farmers will not remain only food providers but will increasingly become energy, fuel, aviation fuel, bitumen, and hydrogen providers. Agricultural residues, biomass, ethanol, CNG, and hydrogen will open new income opportunities, reduce imports, and strengthen rural economies.

Strong Focus on Water Conservation

Emphasizing water conservation, Shri Gadkari said that flowing water must be slowed, stored, and allowed to recharge the ground. He conveyed the message: “Village water should remain in the village, farm water in the farm, and household water in the household,” stressing the need to conserve water like financial savings. He added that in areas where irrigation cannot reach directly, water conservation structures can play a vital role.

Importance of Dairy, Fisheries, and Value Addition

Gadkari identified dairy, fisheries, and the blue economy as key sectors for increasing farmers’ income. He stressed the need to focus on milk production, fish farming, and related activities. He also underlined that increasing production alone is not enough; strong systems for processing, cold storage, pre-cooling, and value addition are essential. Without these, excess production leads to falling prices, causing losses to farmers. Proper storage and processing infrastructure can help ensure better returns. He encouraged farmers to explore and learn from the exhibition, including machinery displays, polyhouses, greenhouses, hydroponics, one-acre farming models, goat rearing, and fish farming, and to apply these learnings in their fields.

Appreciation of Madhya Pradesh’s Agricultural Progress During Shivraj's tenure

Shri Nitin Gadkari appreciated the agricultural achievements of Madhya Pradesh during the tenure of Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan as Chief Minister. He said such initiatives play an important role in strengthening farmers and will inspire them for the future.

This Is Not an End, but a Beginning

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the Unnat Krishi Mahotsav is not a ceremonial event and its conclusion marks a new beginning. He described the four-day event as a learning platform for farmers, bringing together practical knowledge, technology, innovation, and development. He informed that a detailed 'seed-to-market' roadmap has been prepared based on the region’s soil, climate, water availability, and resources. The roadmap identifies suitable crops, fruits, and vegetables for the region and outlines plans for their production, processing, and marketing.

Expansion of Pulses and Horticulture

Shri Chouhan announced that 'Beej Gram' will be developed in every block to ensure the availability of quality seeds. He said that pulses and horticulture will be expanded and the region will be developed as a horticulture hub. He emphasized efficient water use through drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Custom Hiring Centers and Machine Banks will be established at the Panchayat level to make modern agricultural machinery accessible to farmers. He also announced the development of quality nurseries and Clean Plant Centers, strengthening of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and expansion of pack houses and cold storage infrastructure to support farmers from production to market. He highlighted that integrated farming models can significantly increase income even on small landholdings and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing farmers’ income.

Task Force for Implementation

Shri Chouhan announced that a dedicated task force will be set up to monitor the implementation of the roadmap, along with a national-level steering committee. Teams from the central and state governments will work together to ensure that the plans are effectively implemented on the ground.

Appeal for Farmer ID

He urged farmers to create their Farmer ID, noting that it will make access to agricultural services, schemes, and processes easier in the future. He assured that the government is fully committed to improving farmers’ livelihoods and making agriculture a profitable sector.

Agriculture is Central to Developed India Vision

Welcoming Shri Nitin Gadkari, Shri Chouhan described him as a leader known for delivering results through innovation and efficiency. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, agriculture will play a central role in building a developed India, and serving farmers remains the government’s top priority.

Distribution of Benefits

Benefits under various government schemes were distributed to farmers during the closing session. Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Shri  Ramnath Thakur and Haryana Agriculture Minister Shri Shyam Singh Rana also addressed the gathering. The event was attended by Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Shri Jagdish Devda, along with several ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs, public representatives, agricultural scientists, experts, senior officials, and thousands of farmers.

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