The Indian government has advised states to prepare for the worst-case scenario in case of less rainfall during the upcoming kharif sowing season, due to concerns over potential El Nino conditions. Despite this, the India Meteorological Department has predicted normal rainfall for the southwest monsoon season. To prepare for the kharif season, a National Conference on Agriculture-Kharif Campaign-2023 was held, where Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar recommended the use of technology in farming to reduce input costs, boost production and increase farmers’ income. He stressed the importance of making farming profitable to encourage future generations to continue farming activities.
Tomar emphasized that state governments must effectively implement central programmes and funds for better results, as agriculture is a state subject. He also urged states to increase productivity and production of major crops, as demand is expected to rise with population growth. Tomar suggested promoting nano (liquid) fertilisers, which are already being used by farmers, instead of conventional urea, which is still being used despite rising demand for nano urea and natural and organic farming practices.
