Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Regional Agriculture Conference (North Zone) in Lucknow, highlighting the state’s rapid agricultural transformation driven by scientific innovation and policy coordination.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the successful implementation of the “Lab to Land” concept has significantly improved farmers’ access to modern agricultural technologies. He noted that this shift has resulted in increased productivity, higher cropping intensity, and enhanced value addition across the state.
“Scientific techniques, agro-climatic zone-based strategies, and coordinated efforts between the Centre and State have accelerated agricultural growth in Uttar Pradesh,” he said.
Key Highlights from the Address
- Agricultural growth rate in Uttar Pradesh has increased from 8% to nearly 18%
- Significant rise in per-hectare productivity and multi-cropping practices
- Strengthening of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and establishment of Centers of Excellence
- Expansion of irrigation coverage to 85–86% of agricultural land
- Farmers now have improved access to information, markets, and government schemes
The Chief Minister credited the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting agricultural reforms and facilitating the establishment of international research institutions, including the International Rice Research Institute in Varanasi and the upcoming International Potato Center in Agra.
Focus on Value Addition and Technology
Highlighting future priorities, Yogi Adityanath stressed the importance of integrating agriculture with value addition and food processing industries. He pointed out that better coordination between agriculture and manufacturing sectors can further boost economic growth.
He also underlined the role of technology, quality seeds, and reduced dependence on chemical inputs in ensuring sustainable agricultural development.
Farm-Level Impact Visible
The Chief Minister shared examples of farmers now cultivating three crops annually, with some earning up to ₹1 lakh per acre. He noted that earlier gaps in guidance and market access have been bridged through government initiatives, enabling farmers to diversify crops and improve income.
Production Milestones
- Wheat: 425 lakh metric tonnes
- Rice: 211 lakh metric tonnes
- Potatoes: 245 lakh metric tonnes
- Oilseeds: 48 lakh metric tonnes
Despite challenges such as climate impacts from El Niño, the state continues to focus on reducing costs, improving yields, and promoting natural farming practices.
Participation and Collaboration
The conference saw participation from Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Ministers of State, and agriculture ministers from multiple states, reinforcing the importance of regional collaboration in policy-making.