Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Honors Farmers and Soldiers at Agricultural Festival
In a powerful address at the Unnat Krishi Mahotsav–2026 in Raisen, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared that soldiers guarding the borders and farmers working the fields are equally vital to the nation's strength and growth. He underscored the critical roles of both security and food security in India's development trajectory.
Inauguration and Key Attendees
The three-day advanced agriculture exhibition and training program was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. This event, jointly organized by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and the state government's agriculture department, serves as a platform to celebrate and advance farming practices across the region.
Launch of Soil Mobile App e-Form
A significant highlight of the festival was the launch of a Soil Mobile App e-form, designed to empower farmers by enabling them to conduct soil testing independently. This innovative tool will allow farmers to check the health of their soil conveniently, promoting better crop management and sustainable agriculture. The Unnat Krishi Mahotsav is scheduled to continue until April 13, featuring various sessions and exhibitions.
Defence Ministry's Support for Farmers
Despite his role as the country's defence minister, Rajnath Singh expressed that he remains a farmer at heart. He shared an innovative initiative from the defence ministry, which has decided to procure fruits and vegetables grown through natural farming from farmers located near military cantonments nationwide. This move has discontinued external procurement, thereby increasing farmers' income and improving their standard of living. Additionally, the defence ministry is promoting Shri Anna (millets) to ensure better prices for farmers in cantonment areas.
Tributes to Farmers and Soldiers
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav remarked that organizing the advanced agriculture festival in the presence of the defence minister is a tribute to both the hardworking farmers in the fields and the brave soldiers guarding the borders. He highlighted that due to the relentless efforts of farmers, the country's food grain exports have doubled, with Raisen district alone exporting Basmati rice to over 47 countries.
Agricultural Innovations and Future Plans
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan noted that Raisen is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites—Sanchi and Bhimbetka—adding cultural significance to the event. During the Mahotsav, farmers will receive information on integrated farming, which can generate an income of up to Rs 2 lakh per acre. Approximately 20 sessions have been organized on various agricultural topics, providing comprehensive guidance from seed to market.
Chouhan praised Chief Minister Yadav for dedicating the entire year to farmers' welfare and announced that on April 12, an agricultural roadmap for 4–5 districts of his parliamentary constituency will be presented. The Union Agriculture Ministry will start implementing this model from Raisen, Bhopal, Vidisha, and Sehore, with plans to extend it across the country in the future.
Embracing Digital Agriculture
With agricultural markets increasingly going online, farmers can now sell their produce directly from home, enhancing their access to broader markets and improving profitability. This digital shift is part of a larger effort to modernize agriculture and support farmers in achieving greater economic stability.
