Union Minister Promotes Sustainable Agriculture Practices in Punjab

Union Agriculture Minister, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently visited Punjab and interacted with farmers at a Kisan Chaupal in Nurpur Bet village, Ludhiana. During his visit, he witnessed live demonstrations of agricultural machinery, including the Super Straw Management System (SSMS)-fitted combine harvester and the Happy Smart Seeder machine. The Union Minister commended the farmers of Nurpur Bet for adopting sustainable residue management practices, which have led to zero stubble burning in the village since 2017. He emphasized the benefits of using modern agricultural machines, which save farmers' labour, time, and money. Shri Chouhan also visited the 'Samanyu Honey' Beekeeping Centre in Doraha, where he promoted apiculture and rural livelihoods, assuring continued support to farmers.

Key Takeaways:

• Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Agriculture Minister, interacted with farmers at a Kisan Chaupal in Nurpur Bet village, Ludhiana, Punjab.
• The Minister witnessed live demonstrations of agricultural machinery, including the SSMS-fitted combine harvester and the Happy Smart Seeder machine.
• Nurpur Bet village has not engaged in stubble burning since 2017 and has adopted sustainable residue management practices.
• The Happy Smart Seeder machine saves farmers' labour, time, and money by simultaneously covering the stubble, compacting the soil, and ensuring efficient seed placement.
• The Union Minister emphasized the importance of adopting proper stubble management and direct seeding methods, which improves soil fertility over time.
• The nitrogen content in the soil will increase within two years, reducing the need for urea, and crop yields will rise by about two quintals per acre.
• Shri Chouhan visited the 'Samanyu Honey' Beekeeping Centre in Doraha, where he promoted apiculture and rural livelihoods.

Sources:

• Government of India press release