Baramati, June 27, 2026,

Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ram Nath Thakur, stressed the importance of adopting natural farming to improve soil health, protect public health, and ensure sustainable agricultural growth. Addressing a farmers' meet organised under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ at Baramati, he urged farmers to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers and adopt natural farming practices.

The programme was jointly organised by the Department of Agriculture, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Baramati, and ICAR-ATARI, Pune.
On this occasion, Dr. S. K. Roy, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Pune; Shri Sunil Boarkar, Director, ATMA, Maharashtra; Dr. Sammi Reddy, Director, NIASM, Baramati; Dr. G. K. Sasane, Director of Extension Education, MPKV, Rahuri; Dr. N. P. Singh and Dr. Ajay Upadhya from the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture; and Shri Ranjit Pawar, Trustee, KVK Baramati, were present.

During his visit to KVK Baramati, the Minister toured advanced agricultural facilities where scientists demonstrated Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based models developed for sugarcane and banana cultivation. He also visited the AI Centre established in collaboration with Microsoft and reviewed the use of digital technologies for improving farm productivity and crop management.
The Minister also inspected the preparation and application of Jeevamrut, an organic formulation developed and promoted by KVK Baramati to support natural farming. He appreciated the efforts of KVK scientists in promoting sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Ram Nath Thakur expressed concern over the declining quality of soil due to excessive use of chemical fertilisers. He said that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has launched several initiatives to encourage natural farming across the country.

Farmers should stress on natural farming instead of chemical fertilisers for better soil health. Natural farming improves soil fertility, enhances crop productivity over time, and helps produce safe and nutritious food, the Minister said. He appealed to farmers to adopt natural farming practices for the benefit of future generations and environmental sustainability.

On the occasion, Shri Ram Nath Thakur distributed Soil Health Cards to farmers and felicitated progressive farmers who have successfully adopted innovative natural farming techniques. He appreciated their contribution towards promoting sustainable agriculture and encouraged other farmers to learn from their experiences.
The event was attended by senior officials, scientists, and representatives from leading agricultural institutions.

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Harshal Akude/Parshuram Kor

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