Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon small and marginal farmers across India to embrace group farming, pooling their lands to cultivate high-value crops and improve their income levels. Speaking at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi, he interacted directly with farmers and highlighted how collective farming practices can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve market access.

In his address, PM Modi launched two major agricultural initiatives: the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, with an outlay of Rs. 24,000 crore (US$ 270.8 million), and the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, allocated Rs. 11,440 crore (US$ 1.29 billion). Combined, these schemes represent an investment of Rs. 35,440 crore (US$ 4 billion) to support farmers in adopting innovative farming practices, expanding high-value crop cultivation, and achieving financial growth. These programs are designed to provide the necessary infrastructure, technical guidance, and financial support for smallholders to increase productivity and access better market opportunities.

PM Modi also emphasized a phased transition towards natural farming, encouraging farmers to adopt eco-friendly techniques alongside traditional practices. During the event, farmers shared success stories from across India, including aeroponic-based potato cultivation, residue-free Kabuli chana farming, and millet (Shree Anna) production in water-scarce regions, illustrating the potential of innovative and sustainable agriculture practices.

Highlighting the role of women-led cooperatives, PM Modi praised the Sakhi Organization, which has grown from 20 to 90,000 members in the dairy sector. Over 14,000 women now earn more than Rs. 1,00,000 (US$ 11,277) annually, demonstrating the transformative impact of collective and inclusive agricultural initiatives. In addition, he lauded programs under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), which have supported the growth of aquaculture and created employment opportunities in rural communities.

The Prime Minister underscored that collective farming, adoption of natural practices, and diversification into activities such as dairy and fisheries are key drivers for ensuring sustainable growth and rural prosperity in India’s agriculture sector. By pooling resources and knowledge, small and marginal farmers can achieve economies of scale, improve access to modern technologies, and increase their income through high-value crop cultivation.

Through these measures, the Indian government aims to create a more resilient, productive, and profitable agricultural ecosystem. The combination of innovative farming techniques, large-scale group farming, women empowerment, and support for allied sectors positions India to achieve higher food security, enhanced farmer incomes, and a sustainable rural economy.

The push for group farming and high-value crops also aligns with India’s broader goals of promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices, empowering women farmers, and ensuring long-term rural development. The success of these initiatives is expected to generate replicable models across the country, ensuring that smallholders benefit from collaborative approaches while preserving traditional knowledge and local practices.

In conclusion, PM Narendra Modi’s advocacy for group farming, natural farming, and high-value crop cultivation, along with the launch of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, represents a comprehensive effort to boost farmer income, sustainability, and rural prosperity, while supporting India’s broader goals of innovation and self-reliance in agriculture.

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