Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Visits ICAR-CIAE, Stresses Technological Mechanization for Small Farmers

23 June 2025, New Delhi: Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) in Bhopal today. Addressing scientists, students, and staff at the institute, the Minister commended CIAE for its valuable contributions to the development of Indian agriculture. He emphasized the importance of accelerating the development of affordable, farmer-friendly technologies tailored for smallholder farmers so that modern mechanization can reach even the most remote corners of the country.

During the visit, Mr. Chouhan was accompanied by key officials including Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) and Director General, ICAR; Dr. S.N. Jha, Deputy Director General (Engineering); Dr. A.K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (Extension); Dr. C.R. Mehta, Director, ICAR-CIAE; and Dr. M. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-IISS, Bhopal.

Reviewing the institute’s recent accomplishments, the Minister urged the institute to draft a long-term roadmap for agricultural mechanization over the next decade through its All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) network, keeping in mind the diverse needs of different regions. He said that such efforts would significantly contribute to the Government of India’s vision of a developed Bharat.

Union Minister Chouhan highlighted the need to focus on developing farm machinery powered by small engines or alternative energy sources, as well as sensor-based systems, to ensure inclusive benefits for farmers of all categories. He added that while technological innovation in agriculture is essential, it is equally important to ensure the last-mile delivery of such technologies to farmers’ fields in alignment with their actual needs.

The Union Minister closely observed several innovations developed by CIAE, including the newly introduced tractor-operated plastic mulch layer-cum-planter. He appreciated the potential of such technologies to reduce both labor and input costs for farmers while increasing productivity. He reiterated that to make Indian agriculture self-reliant and progressive, there must be a strong focus on need-based innovations, soil health, food security, and farm mechanization. Concluding his address, Mr. Chouhan called for collective efforts by scientists and institutions to ensure that small and marginal farmers are not left out of the technological revolution transforming Indian agriculture.

Also Read: India’s Agrochemical Market Hits $11.2 Billion in FY2025, Eyes $14.5 Billion by 2028: Rubix Data Sciences

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