Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Friday said technology and innovation would play a key role in increasing agricultural production and boosting farmers’ incomes, as he outlined the state government’s efforts to modernise farming and promote natural agriculture.

Addressing the Balram Krishi Mahotsav in Singrauli virtually from the Chief Minister’s Residence, CM Dr Yadav said the government had taken several measures in the interest of farmers and was working continuously to strengthen the agricultural sector. He also extended his greetings to farmers on the occasion of Anant Chaturdashi.

Singrauli emerging as natural farming hub

CM Dr Yadav expressed satisfaction over the growing adoption of natural farming in Singrauli, saying more than 3,000 farmers in the district had already embraced the practice.

He said collective efforts would be made to transform Singrauli into a leading agricultural district. While the district is widely known as the energy capital of Madhya Pradesh, the government now aims to develop it as a major centre for natural farming as well.

The Chief Minister interacted with progressive farmers in Singrauli through video conferencing and discussed their experiences with natural farming, Shree Anna production and turmeric cultivation.

Farmers told him that natural farming based on organic manure was proving more beneficial than conventional agricultural practices.

Irrigation, food processing to get push

CM Dr Yadav said the state’s irrigation capacity would be expanded to 10 million hectares, while food processing and value addition would receive greater attention. He said the One District-One Product initiative would help strengthen local production and create additional opportunities for farmers.

The government also plans to integrate animal husbandry and dairy activities more closely with the rural economy. CM Dr Yadav said 100,000 farmers, young people and women associated with agriculture would receive specialised training to create a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs in Madhya Pradesh.

Focus on shree anna and crop diversification

Located at the confluence of the Son and Gopad rivers, Singrauli is a major producer of Shree Anna, with Kodo and Sama among the important crops grown in the region.

The Chief Minister said the state government had decided to procure Kodo-Kutki at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) following an initiative taken by farmers from Singrauli and Dindori.

He said farmers were increasingly adopting new technologies and experimenting with new crops alongside traditional agricultural practices. The district also has significant potential in horticulture and food processing, he added.

Several units, including flour mills, rice mills, oil mills, dairy product facilities, bakeries and other food-processing units, have already been established in Singrauli.

Daytime power supply for farmers

CM Dr Yadav said feeder separation had been completed in the district to facilitate 10 hours of daytime electricity supply to farmers. The move, he said, would further improve power availability for agricultural activities.

Urging farmers to reduce their dependence on a single crop, the Chief Minister called for greater adoption of crop diversification. He encouraged farmers to explore horticulture and natural farming while also taking up animal husbandry and fisheries to create additional sources of income.

The government’s broader focus, CM Dr Yadav said, is to combine technology, innovation and diversification with traditional agricultural knowledge to strengthen farming and improve economic opportunities for rural communities across Madhya Pradesh.