Maharashtra becomes the first state to launch a Soil Map with the inauguration of the ‘National Soil Spectral Library’
19 May 2025, New Delhi: Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Mr. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, participated in a farmer conference held in Nagpur, Maharashtra, under the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’. During the event, he addressed a large gathering of farmers and stakeholders. Maharashtra Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Fadnavis also attended the event, where both leaders felicitated progressive farmers for their exceptional contributions to agriculture.
Other dignitaries present included Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Mr. Dhananjay Munde, Minister Mr. Ashish Jaiswal, Mr. Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Director General of ICAR Dr. M.L. Jat, and several other notable guests.
Key Highlights from the Minister’s Address:
Union Minister Mr. Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that the country must unite under the banner of “One Nation, One Agriculture, One Team.” He stated that with the collaboration of the Central Government, State Governments, ICAR, State Agriculture Departments, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and all agricultural institutions, transformative changes can be achieved in the sector.
He praised Maharashtra as a land of potential and resilience, describing its farmers as hardworking and visionary. He acknowledged the consistent efforts of the Maharashtra Chief Minister to change the face of farming and uplift the lives of farmers. The Minister affirmed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the government is committed to building an Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) agricultural sector.
Major Announcements:
- Clean Plant Program: Mr. Chouhan announced the establishment of a National Clean Plant Lab in Pune to conduct advanced research on plant genetic material. He highlighted that the Clean Plant Program is vital to ensuring disease-free, high-quality planting material.
- Focus on Quality Inputs and Soil Health: He urged farmers to adopt improved seeds, reduce production costs, and focus on soil testing to increase productivity sustainably.
Institutional Strength:
The Minister shared that ICAR currently operates 113 institutions across India, with 11 located in Maharashtra. A strategic meeting with the heads of these institutions is planned at the NBSS&LUP (National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning) in Nagpur to chart a course for agricultural development in the state.
He stressed the Modi Government’s commitment to bridging the gap between lab research and farm practices. Over 16,000 agricultural scientists working under ICAR will collaborate with extension officers to educate farmers about new seed varieties and innovations. During the 15-day campaign from May 29 to June 12, these teams will visit villages to help plan for the Kharif season and promote sustainable farming practices.
National Soil Spectral Library & Technological Innovations:
At the same event, the National Soil Spectral Library was inaugurated by Mr. Chouhan and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Developed by NBSS&LUP using hyperspectral sensor technology, the library collects data on soil pH, density, and essential elements from across India. With this, Maharashtra has become the first state to introduce a comprehensive Soil Map.
Additionally, Mr. Chouhan launched an AI-based Smart Trap technology to manage pink bollworm pests in cotton crops. This smart system will send real-time alerts to farmers about infestations.
Irrigation and Mechanization:
CM Devendra Fadnavis highlighted the Wainganga–Nalganaga river project, which will enhance irrigation in Vidarbha. He praised Mr. Shivraj Singh Chouhan for initiating inclusive agricultural policies and assured full support from the state government.
Agriculture Minister Mr. Maanikrao Kokate discussed ongoing research on battery-powered mini tractors, which could address labor shortages during cotton harvesting. He said if successful, the findings will be presented to the Ministry for further action.
Honouring Progressive Farmers:
Farmers from the Nagpur region, who have made significant contributions in natural farming, organic farming, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), were felicitated by the Union Agriculture Minister and the Chief Minister.
The event witnessed massive participation from farmers, agricultural scientists, and government officials from across the Vidarbha region.
Also Read: Two Decades of Bt Cotton in India: A Story of Progress and Persistent Challenges
📢 Reach Farmers, Share Your Story, and Grow Your Brand!
Got news to share? A company story to highlight? Looking to launch an impactful advertising campaign? Connect with us at info@krishakjagat.org or nimishgangrade@krishakjagat.org and make your mark!
📢 Connect with 100+ Million Farmers! India’s leading farmers rely on Krishak Jagat’s Hindi website for trusted agriculture news, advisory and insights. Click here to explore!
