Union Agriculture Minister Visits Vellore KVK, Highlights Integration of Central Schemes for Farmers’ Welfare
27 October 2025, Tamil Nadu: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, underscoring the vision of “One Agriculture – One Nation – One Team.” The visit reflected the government’s emphasis on integrated agricultural development and farmer empowerment through convergence of central schemes and local innovation.
During his visit, the Minister interacted with farmers, women self-help groups (SHGs), and rural youth, reviewing ongoing initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY), National Pulses Mission, and National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). He commended the KVK’s efforts in technology innovation and farmer outreach, particularly noting the development of a Wild Boar Repellent that has provided farmers with an effective, locally adapted solution for crop protection.
Under the Seed Hub and Pulses Mission, Vellore KVK has successfully disseminated high-yielding varieties such as VBN-8, VBN-10, and VBN-11. The Minister also explored exhibitions displaying agricultural innovations and value-added products, acknowledging the KVK’s contribution to advancing rural livelihoods.
As part of his visit, Shri Chouhan participated in two ‘Chaupal’ interactions with farmers from neighboring districts including Virudhunagar, Sivaganga, Thoothukudi, and Ramanathapuram. Farmers shared their experiences with natural farming, Mundu chili cultivation, and Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) on pulses and oilseeds. The Minister reiterated that PM-DDKY integrates 36 schemes across 11 central ministries to deliver comprehensive, coordinated support to farmers across the country.
Emphasizing the importance of the National Pulses Mission, he highlighted that the initiative—launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—aims to make India self-reliant in pulses production. He pointed out that Tamil Nadu, with its strong research base and diverse agro-climatic zones, will benefit greatly from improved varieties, advanced cultivation technologies, and assured marketing systems. He also lauded the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban (TNAU), for developing superior pulses varieties suited to local conditions.
Addressing key agricultural concerns, the Minister assured farmers that steps would be taken to combat pest and disease issues in coconut cultivation, and to address market gluts in mango production through the establishment of processing and value-addition units. He further affirmed that efforts are underway to ensure all eligible farmers in Tamil Nadu are included under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana for direct income support.
Expressing admiration for Tamil Nadu’s farmers, Shri Chouhan praised their dedication, cultural values, and contribution to national food security. He announced his intention to revisit the state to engage further on natural farming and allied initiatives.
The event was attended by senior officials including Dr. R. Tamizhvendan, Vice Chancellor, TNAU; Dr. Shaik N. Meera, Director, ICAR-ATARI Hyderabad; Ms. Initha, Joint Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare; and Kumaravel Pandian, State Horticulture Commissioner. Representatives from ICAR, TANUVAS, and the state’s agriculture and allied departments were also present.
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