The eagerly anticipated National Agricultural Fair, dubbed a 'Krishi Mahakumbh' and 'living university' for farmers, is scheduled to take place in Raisen from April 11 to 13. This significant event aims to consolidate all essential agricultural information and solutions onto a single platform, spanning from advanced seeds and fertilizers to crop insurance, credit, and future agricultural roadmaps. Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently engaged in a virtual dialogue with sarpanchs from Raisen, Vidisha, Sehore, and surrounding villages, urging them to ensure maximum farmer participation to make the fair a resounding success.

What Happened?

During his virtual address, Minister Chouhan emphasized the transformative potential of the three-day National Agricultural Fair. He highlighted that the event would serve as a 'game-changer' for the farming community, offering comprehensive solutions from 'seed to market' and 'insurance to credit' all under one roof. The Minister appealed to the village heads, or sarpanchs, to consider farmer participation a 'village mission,' envisioning the fair as a grand 'people's festival' that will shape the future direction of agriculture for years to come.

Minister Chouhan outlined the extensive scope of the fair, detailing how it would empower farmers with knowledge on modern equipment, drones, advanced seeds, suitable fertilizers, and organic farming techniques. It will also provide insights into Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) marketing models, ensuring farmers are well-equipped to achieve secure and prosperous farming outcomes. Thousands of farmers, women's self-help groups, and FPO members are expected to attend, benefiting from the diverse offerings and expert guidance available throughout the event.

The fair will feature dedicated sections for crucial aspects of farming. For instance, under the Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) section, insurance companies will facilitate on-the-spot crop insurance policies, allowing farmers to obtain live insurance coverage instantly. Furthermore, a 'Kisan Pathshala' (Farmers' Workshop) will be organized, complemented by the AIDE app, educational materials, comic booklets, and a 'Krishi Rakshak Portal & Helpline' to address all farmer queries related to insurance. Experts will simplify complex topics such as premium sharing, claim procedures, loss reporting, surveys, and timely payments, making vital information accessible to everyone.

Key Highlights

The fair provides a comprehensive platform offering solutions from seed selection to market access and insurance to credit facilities.
Farmers can obtain on-the-spot crop insurance policies under the Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
Detailed information on agricultural loans, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), and Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) with immediate application and approval facilities.
Exhibition of advanced, high-yielding seeds, bio-fertilizers, and sustainable soil health management practices.
Emphasis on organic and natural farming, including certification processes and specialized market linkages for organic products.
Guidance on FPO-based direct marketing, empowering farmers to bypass middlemen through cooperative and national platforms.
Farmers will receive practical advice on crop diversification, value addition, and their rights concerning seeds and plant varieties.

Why Does This Matter?

This National Agricultural Fair holds immense significance for the common farmer because it directly addresses many of the challenges they face daily. By centralizing crucial information on crop insurance, farmers can better protect their livelihoods from unforeseen losses, securing their future. Access to instant loan approvals and details about various credit schemes like KCC and AIF means farmers can invest more easily in infrastructure, modern equipment, and better practices, ultimately boosting their productivity and income without bureaucratic delays.

Moreover, the fair's focus on advanced seeds, organic farming, and soil health directly impacts the quality and sustainability of agricultural output. Farmers will learn practical methods to reduce costs, increase yield, and adopt environmentally friendly practices, leading to a healthier environment and more profitable farming. Providing direct market linkages through FPOs and cooperatives empowers farmers to negotiate better prices for their produce, reducing dependence on intermediaries and ensuring they receive a fair share of the value created. This comprehensive approach aims to create a more resilient, prosperous, and sustainable agricultural sector, benefiting not just farmers but the entire rural economy.