- Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched the Pragati Project, a landmark initiative designed to strengthen India’s agricultural ecosystem by empowering over 20,000 agricultural entrepreneurs (agripreneurs) and benefiting more than 20 lakh farmers across the country.
- The programme aims to improve farm productivity, promote sustainable agriculture, and accelerate the adoption of modern farming technologies.
- The project reflects the Government of India’s commitment to making agriculture more profitable, resilient, and technology-driven.
What is the Pragati Project?
- The Pragati Project is a nationwide initiative focused on creating a strong network of trained agricultural entrepreneurs who will work closely with farmers to provide modern agricultural solutions, technical guidance, quality inputs, and improved market access.
- By connecting farmers with innovation and technology, the project seeks to increase crop productivity while reducing production costs.
Key Objectives of the Pragati Project:
- Empower more than 20,000 agricultural entrepreneurs
- Benefit over 20 lakh farmers
- Promote modern and precision farming techniques
- Encourage sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture
- Improve farmers’ income through better productivity
- Strengthen rural entrepreneurship
- Increase adoption of digital agriculture technologies
- Enhance market access and value chains for farm produce
Role of Agricultural Entrepreneurs:
Under the Pragati Project, trained agripreneurs will become the bridge between scientific research and farmers. They will assist farmers by:
- Providing scientific farming advice
- Promoting high-quality seeds and fertilizers
- Encouraging water-efficient irrigation
- Supporting pest and disease management
- Introducing digital farming tools
- Helping farmers access government schemes and financial support
This approach is expected to create employment opportunities in rural India while improving agricultural efficiency.
Focus on Technology and Sustainability:
The initiative places special emphasis on:
- Smart farming
- Drone technology
- Digital agriculture
- Soil health management
- Precision irrigation
- Climate-resilient farming
- Sustainable agricultural practices
These measures are expected to enhance productivity while protecting natural resources and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.
Strengthening India’s Rural Economy
Speaking at the launch, Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted that empowering farmers through innovation and entrepreneurship is essential for achieving the vision of a developed India. The Pragati Project aligns with the government’s broader objectives of rural development, food security, and increasing farmers’ income through technology-driven agriculture.
Key Highlights:
- Pragati Project launched by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
- More than 20 lakh farmers to benefit
- Over 20,000 agripreneurs to be empowered
- Focus on digital and smart agriculture
- Promotes sustainable and climate-resilient farming
- Strengthens rural entrepreneurship and agricultural innovation
Conclusion
The launch of the Pragati Project marks another significant step towards modernising Indian agriculture. By empowering thousands of agricultural entrepreneurs and supporting millions of farmers, the initiative aims to create a stronger, more sustainable, and technology-driven agricultural ecosystem that can contribute significantly to India’s rural economy and food security.