Mumbai, 29 Jul (Commoditiescontrol): In a bid to fortify the agricultural sector against the impacts of climate change, the Indian government has significantly boosted its focus on agricultural research, particularly in developing heat-resistant wheat varieties. Sanjeev Chopra, the Food Secretary, in an interview with the CNBC TV18 listed host of acctivities the government is undertaking towards making the country self-reliant. Chopra announced that 75% of India's wheat production now comprises these resilient varieties, a key component of the government's broader strategy to ensure food security.
Chopra revealed that India is projected to produce 113-114 million tons of wheat this year, a testament to the success of recent agricultural innovations and the resilience of Indian farmers. "Our focus on heat-resistant varieties is already paying off, and we are optimistic about meeting our production targets," he stated.
A crucial strategy behind this progress is speed breeding, a technique that accelerates the development of new crop varieties. According to Chopra, new wheat varieties developed through speed breeding could be available in the next 3-4 years. This method significantly reduces the time required for developing and testing new strains, enabling farmers to quickly adapt to changing environmental conditions.
The government's commitment to agricultural research aims to enhance the productivity and sustainability of Indian agriculture. By investing in the development of heat-resistant crops, India is better positioned to manage the adverse effects of rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns.
Experts believe these advancements will not only secure India’s food supply but also enhance the country's agricultural exports. With a significant portion of the wheat crop being heat-resistant, Indian wheat is expected to perform well in both domestic and international markets.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to modernizing India's agricultural sector. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, developing resilient crop varieties will be crucial for the stability and growth of Indian agriculture.
The Union Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, supports this initiative with a robust allocation of Rs 1.52 lakh crore towards agriculture and allied sectors. The Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) received Rs 9,504 crore, underscoring the government's dedication to advancing agricultural productivity, resilience, and infrastructure.
A significant portion of the budget is allocated for releasing 109 high-yielding, climate-resilient varieties of 32 crops. This effort aims to boost agricultural output and mitigate climate risks. Additionally, the government plans to transition one crore farmers to natural farming practices within the next two years, providing certification and branding support to facilitate this shift.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau: 09820130172)
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