Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of farmers across the country for the approval of a ₹38,000 crore fertiliser subsidy, aimed at ensuring timely and affordable availability of fertilisers to farmers. The decision was approved in the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister earlier this week.
During a review meeting on the progress of the Kharif 2025 season, the Minister informed that sowing activities have been highly satisfactory, supported by a favourable monsoon and adequate water availability. He said, “The agriculture sector is achieving record milestones through timely rains, efficient planning, and farmer-friendly policies under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.”
According to data presented during the review, the total sown area for paddy has reached 441.58 lakh hectares, higher than last year. The area under oilseeds stands at 190.13 lakh hectares, led by soybean and groundnut, while pulses have been sown on 120.41 lakh hectares, marking a major step toward nutritional security. The sugarcane area has reached 59.07 lakh hectares, benefiting farmers directly through increased production and income opportunities.
Agriculture Commissioner Dr. P.K. Singh presented a report highlighting that most major reservoirs across the country are maintaining normal to above-normal water levels, ensuring adequate irrigation support. The total live storage in 161 reservoirs stands at 165.58 billion cubic metres (BCM) — 104.30% of last year’s level and 115.95% of the ten-year average.
The Minister noted that the harvesting of Kharif crops has already begun in some regions, covering about 27% of the total Kharif area, while Rabi sowing has also commenced in early stages. The condition of key vegetable crops such as onion, potato, and tomato remains satisfactory, and the current buffer stocks of rice and wheat are well above the prescribed norms.
Chouhan said that India’s agriculture sector continues to demonstrate resilience and growth, supported by digital innovations, efficient resource management, and strong coordination between the Centre and States. He added that the Central government will continue to provide all necessary support to boost pulses and oilseeds production during the upcoming Rabi season, ensuring greater productivity and income stability for farmers.
He reaffirmed that the government remains committed to strengthening farmers’ welfare, improving food security, and achieving self-reliance in agricultural production, in line with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.