Shivraj Chouhan Holds ‘Gram Chaupal’ in Gorakhpur, Urges Farmers to Diversify Beyond Traditional Agriculture

Gorakhpur- Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development,  Shivraj Singh Chouhan, interacted directly with villagers during a ‘Gram Chaupal’ held in Dumri Khurd, Gorakhpur, on Saturday. The event saw enthusiastic participation from farmers, Self Help Group (SHG) members, and Panchayat representatives, who shared their experiences and concerns with the Minister.

Addressing the gathering,  Chouhan highlighted the combined efforts of the Central and Uttar Pradesh Governments to strengthen the agricultural ecosystem. He spoke about initiatives aimed at improving crop yields through quality seeds, reducing input costs, and ensuring timely support to farmers. He reiterated the government’s commitment to provide compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana for crop losses.

The Minister also discussed strategies to boost the production of pulses such as lentils and grams under the Centre’s ‘Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission’. He invited farmers’ suggestions to make the programme more effective. Noting the government’s recent decision to revise the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Rabi crops, he said the increased MSP for wheat, lentil, gram, and mustard will give farmers a significant income boost this season.

Chouhan drew attention to the reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on agricultural machinery—from 12% and 18% down to 5%—under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. This, he said, has translated into tangible financial relief for farmers investing in modern equipment.

Encouraging farmers to diversify their sources of income, he urged them to adopt animal husbandry, fisheries, beekeeping, and horticulture alongside crop cultivation. He also informed attendees about government programmes related to livestock vaccination and allied activities.

During the Chaupal, participants openly shared their suggestions on crop choices, input costs, and local marketing needs. Concluding the event, Chouhan called for collective efforts from citizens and the government to drive rural development and ensure the prosperity of India’s farming communities.