Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2026 Highlights Roadmap for ‘Viksit Krishi – Atmanirbhar Bharat’

Agriculture Minister Unveils Reform Agenda at ICAR Pusa Campus

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the three-day Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela at the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute campus in New Delhi, presenting a reform-oriented roadmap for achieving ‘Viksit Krishi – Atmanirbhar Bharat’. The event brought together scientists, progressive farmers and policymakers to strengthen the linkage between agricultural research and on-ground implementation.

Strict Action on Delayed Farmer Payments

The Minister announced a zero-tolerance approach towards delays in payments to farmers. Any agency or State found withholding dues would be liable to pay 12% interest on pending amounts. He reiterated that the Centre would release its share on time and may consider direct transfers to beneficiaries if disbursal bottlenecks persist at the State level.

Instances of gaps in fund delivery for farm mechanisation were cited, underlining the need for enhanced monitoring and accountability.

Empowering KVKs and Expanding Credit Access

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) are set to be strengthened as district-level innovation hubs to facilitate dissemination of improved crop varieties, integrated farming systems and modern agronomic practices.

The Minister reaffirmed that Kisan Credit Card loans effectively carry a 4% interest rate and urged banks to simplify processes to reduce dependence on informal credit sources.

MSP, Subsidy Reforms and Regulatory Simplification

To expedite payments, a proposal was made to reduce the Minimum Support Price procurement window from three months to one month. The government is also examining the feasibility of transferring the ₹2 lakh crore fertiliser subsidy directly to farmers via Direct Benefit Transfer mechanisms.

Licensing procedures for pesticides will be streamlined with fixed timelines to prevent delays and curb circulation of substandard inputs.

Important Facts for Exams

• MSP ensures remunerative pricing for notified crops.

• Kisan Credit Card provides concessional agricultural loans.

• DBT transfers subsidies directly into beneficiaries’ accounts.

• Krishi Vigyan Kendras function as district-level extension centres.

The Minister announced that the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ will resume before the kharif season, with scientists conducting village outreach to promote export-oriented and technology-driven farming practices.