Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday directed officials to ensure that all preparations for the Kharif-2026 season are completed on time, emphasizing the need for quality seeds, fertilisers, and technical assistance to be made available to farmers promptly.
Focus on Farmer Income and Modern Technology
Chairing a review meeting of the agriculture department, Yogi stressed special attention on enhancing farmers' income by promoting modern technology, transparent systems, and crop diversification within the agricultural sector. The CM particularly emphasized that in view of changing weather and climatic conditions, cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and 'Shri Anna' (millets) should be encouraged.
Contingency Plans for Drought-Prone Areas
He directed officials to keep a contingency plan ready for drought-prone areas and to provide seeds for alternative crops to farmers whenever necessary. Additionally, he instructed the agriculture department to organize an international exhibition showcasing the state's unique strengths and achievements in agriculture.
Production Targets for Kharif-2026
The CM was informed that a target has been set for the Kharif-2026 season covering an area of 110.65 lakh hectares, with a production goal of 302.62 lakh metric tonnes. The production target for paddy has been set at 224.25 lakh metric tonnes, while targets for increased production have also been established for pearl millet (Bajra), maize, pigeon pea (Arhar), and groundnut. It was further noted that a target of distributing 2.29 lakh quintals of seeds has been set for Kharif-2026, of which 1.26 lakh quintals were made available by May 24. Specifically, a distribution target of 80,000 quintals of seeds has been set for paddy.
Technical Advice and Community Engagement
Yogi emphasized that farmers should be provided with technical agricultural advice on a regular basis. The CM announced that starting June, 'chaupals' (community gatherings) will be organized in all development blocks. These chaupals should be accompanied by 'Kisan Melas' (Farmers' Fairs). The objective is to ensure that farmers receive the benefits of every government scheme and to make concerted efforts to connect them with progressive farming practices.
Addressing Drought and Fertiliser Issues
During the meeting, it was reported that about 18 to 20 districts in Uttar Pradesh are drought prone. Given the apprehension that an area of about 1 million hectares dedicated to paddy and groundnut cultivation could be adversely affected, arrangements are being made to procure additional seeds for pulses, oilseeds, and 'Shri Anna' (millets) crops. While reviewing the availability and distribution of fertilisers, Yogi instructed that effective measures be implemented to curb hoarding, black marketing, and the diversion of fertilisers.
