Bhopal, February 23: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized that empowering farmers is the cornerstone of the state’s development agenda. Addressing the ‘Krishi Manthan and Agri-Tech Expo 2026’ at Gwalior’s agricultural university via video conference, he unveiled ambitious plans to create a seamless value chain from farm to factory and orchard to market.
Yadav described farmers as the backbone of Madhya Pradesh’s economy, crediting their tireless efforts for vibrant markets across the region. Declaring 2026 as the ‘Year of Farmer Welfare,’ he promised it would mark a historic milestone in elevating agricultural prosperity.
The initiative will integrate full value addition processes, spurring job-creating industries for agri-product processing, high-yield seed production, livestock rearing, dairy farming, and fisheries expansion. Every step aims to boost farming incomes and overall rural development.
Highlighting rapid irrigation expansion through the National River Linking Project, Yadav noted the government’s push for medicinal and spice crops. An upcoming Agri-Export Policy will further strengthen the sector, alongside increased research and modern techniques to make agriculture and horticulture highly profitable.
The ‘Prosperous Farmer-Prosperous State’ theme of the event will drive essential reforms, Yadav said. The government is prioritizing value chain development in modern farming, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy, and fisheries, while promoting technology adoption and rural youth entrepreneurship for massive job creation.
With climate change posing growing threats to agriculture, Yadav urged senior scientists from leading institutions to brainstorm innovative solutions during the conclave, paving the way for resilient farming practices.