|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chouhan announces two genome-edited rice varieties
|
|
Tuesday, 06 May, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Our Bureau, New Delhi
|
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the development of two genome-edited rice varieties, in India, at Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Complex, New Delhi. This marks a new beginning in the field of scientific research and innovation. A large number of scientists and farmers attended the event.
Chouhan said, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India’s vision for a developed nation is being realised, and farmers are moving towards prosperity. The achievement will be written in golden letters. During the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Prime Minister Modi had called upon farmers to adopt modern techniques to overcome agricultural challenges. Inspired by his words, ICAR scientists have made exceptional achievements in the field of agriculture with the creation of these new varieties."
He further said that the development of these new crops will not only enhance production but will also yield positive results in environmental terms. It will save irrigation water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby lowering environmental pressure. This is a classic example of getting both benefits – increased production and environmental conservation.
Chouhan emphasised that in the coming times, there is a need for ensuring food security, increasing nutritious production, and providing food for both India and the world, while making India the food basket of the world. He stated, "We are proud that our efforts have led to the export of 48,000 crore worth of Basmati rice annually."
The Minister also urged the need to take further steps to increase production of soybean, arhar, tur, lentils, urad, oilseeds, and pulses.
Chouhan also introduced the "Minus 5 and Plus 10" formula, explaining that it involves reducing the area of rice cultivation by 5 million hectares while increasing rice production by 10 million tons in the same area. This would free up space for the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.
He urged the farmers, especially the young farmers, to adopt advanced farming techniques. He said, "We need to take agricultural research to the farmers. When agricultural scientists and farmers come together, miracles will happen."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|