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Sunday, August 23, 2026, 9:11 pm

Sunday, August 23, 2026, 9:11 pm

When policy meets the plough: Madhya Pradesh’s push for modern, natural farming

When policy meets the plough Madhya Pradesh’s push for modern, natural farming
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Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has made farmer welfare a defining theme of his government. The message is consistent across the state: modern technology must reach the field, and natural farming must become a viable choice for every cultivator. The Balram Krishi Mahotsav, held in each district, is the vehicle for this twin push. It brings advanced tools, expert advice and government schemes directly to farmers, while also encouraging a shift toward sustainable practices.

The Chief Minister’s personal engagement sets the tone. Despite a demanding schedule that includes duties in New Delhi and across Madhya Pradesh, Dr Yadav has interacted with farmers at Balram Krishi Mahotsav events in multiple districts. He has addressed gatherings in Shivpuri virtually from the capital, and has previously connected with farmers in Ashoknagar, Guna, Vidisha, Raisen, Bhopal, Rajgarh, Sehore, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Burhanpur, Ujjain and Khargon. In Alirajpur, a tribal dominated district, he attended in person. This sustained outreach signals that farmer dialogue is not a one time exercise but a continuous priority.

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At the core of this effort is a simple belief: when farmers prosper, society prospers. Dr Yadav has often said that the farmer stands for self reliance. Just as a soldier guards the border, a farmer feeds the nation. Both roles are acts of service. That conviction is now being translated into action through a year long focus on farmer welfare. The Balram Krishi Mahotsav is designed to raise incomes, improve living standards and support the overall well being of farming families.

What makes these events useful is their practical content. District level exhibitions showcase advanced agricultural technologies. Subject experts hold direct conversations with farmers. Sessions cover digital farm services, weather based cropping, soil health management, drone technology, smart irrigation, modern farm machinery and updated farm management systems. Experts also explain new methods suited to changing climate patterns and ways to manage risk. The aim is to move beyond theory and give farmers tools they can use in the next sowing season.

A major digital push underpins this drive. The Chief Minister is urging farmers to create their Farmer ID under the Digital Agriculture Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Like Aadhaar for citizens, the Farmer ID acts as a trusted digital identity for cultivators. It links land records, livestock ownership, crops sown and benefits received. This integration can reduce delays, curb leakages and make scheme delivery faster and more transparent.

Equally important is the emphasis on natural farming. Dr Yadav has repeatedly warned about the health impacts of excessive chemical use. Natural farming is presented not just as an alternative method but as a way to restore balance with nature. It improves soil water retention, allows good yields with less irrigation and helps conserve water for future generations. It also lowers input costs by reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. For small and marginal farmers, this can mean higher net income and lower risk. A poison free field protects both the farmer and the consumer. A healthy farmer, the argument goes, builds a healthy nation.

The challenge now is to turn awareness into adoption. Technology must be affordable and accessible. Training must be continuous, not limited to a single event. Market linkages must ensure that better quality produce fetches better prices. And natural farming must be supported with credible extension services, quality inputs and clear certification so that farmers can sell with confidence.

Madhya Pradesh has set a clear direction. The next step is to ensure that every district, block and village feels this change. If the state sustains this focus on modern tools, digital identity and natural methods, the Balram Krishi Mahotsav will be remembered not just as a series of events but as the start of a lasting transformation in the fields of Madhya Pradesh.


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