Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Monday said that modern agricultural technologies and scientific farming practices are the key drivers of farmers’ prosperity. Addressing the Balram Krishi Mahotsav organised in Betul through video conferencing from the Chief Minister’s residence, CM Dr Yadav said that farmers adopting new techniques, advanced agricultural methods and government schemes would witness a significant rise in their income and make farming a more profitable profession.

Highlighting the state’s achievements in the horticulture sector, the Chief Minister said that Madhya Pradesh has secured the first position in the country for outstanding performance in the development and expansion of horticultural crops. He termed the achievement a reflection of the state government’s commitment towards improving the lives of farmers.

Betul’s fertile land, farmers’ hard work driving agricultural growth

Praising Betul district’s natural resources, fertile soil and hardworking farmers, CM Dr Yadav said the region has immense agricultural potential due to the blessings of seven rivers, including the revered Maa Tapti, also known as the daughter of the Sun.

“This is a programme dedicated to farmers. Our government is committed to farmers’ welfare and empowerment. We are setting new benchmarks in agricultural development and delivering on our promises,” he added. 

The Chief Minister stated that Betul has established a distinct identity not only in Madhya Pradesh but across the country for maize production. He added that farmers in the district are strengthening the state’s food security by producing high-quality crops such as wheat, paddy, maize and millets.

He further said that if Madhya Pradesh is emerging as the country’s “food basket”, the fertile land of Betul and the dedication of its farmers have played a crucial role in this achievement.

Balram Krishi Mahotsav aims to take technology to farmers

CM Dr Yadav said that the state government is organising the Balram Krishi Mahotsav from July 15 to November 13, 2026, with the objective of reducing farmers’ concerns and enhancing their prosperity.

During the campaign, government officials are reaching out to farmers and providing information about modern agricultural technologies, innovative schemes and scientific farming practices.

The Chief Minister urged farmers to make the most of the festival, interact with agricultural experts and adopt new methods to increase productivity and income.

Govt expands support for farmers

CM Dr Yadav informed farmers about several decisions taken by the state government for their welfare. He said that considering the demands of moong growers, the eligibility limit for procurement has been increased from 25 per cent to 60 per cent, allowing the government to purchase moong from 60 per cent of eligible farmers.

He added that the last date for slot booking has been extended until 10 August, while moong procurement will continue until 20 August 2026.

The Chief Minister also announced that the e-token system introduced for fertiliser distribution has been suspended with immediate effect to ensure convenience for farmers.

He said that the state achieved record wheat procurement this year by providing bonuses along with the minimum support price. Besides this, paddy farmers are being given additional assistance of Rs 4,000 per hectare. For the first time, Madhya Pradesh has undertaken record procurement of Kodo-Kutki, along with a bonus payment of Rs 1,000 per quintal to farmers.

Focus on strengthening farm-to-market supply chain

CM Dr Yadav said that expansion of irrigation facilities and water conservation measures are among the government’s top priorities for Betul’s long-term development.

He informed that an agreement has been signed with the Maharashtra government for the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project, which will strengthen irrigation capacity and groundwater conservation in Betul, Burhanpur, Khandwa and surrounding regions.

The Chief Minister said the government is working to strengthen the entire agricultural value chain, from farms to markets, by promoting food processing, warehousing, cold chains, grading, packaging, value addition and agricultural exports.

Assuring farmers of continued government support, CM Dr Yadav said the state’s sole objective is to ensure that farmers receive the full value of their hard work and that agriculture becomes a truly profitable enterprise.