Chouhan Highlights Non-GM Research Role In Increasing India's Pulses And Oilseed Output

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan on Thursday emphasised the need for greater research into non-genetically modified (non-GM) crops to improve agricultural productivity, particularly in pulses. Speaking on the 98th Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in New Delhi, Chauhan said agricultural research should focus on multiple approaches to address food security challenges and increase farmers’ output. During the event, Chauhan highlighted the importance of strengthening research beyond genetically modified crops.

He said that while research on GM crops has its place, ICAR should also expand efforts in non-GM crop development to boost pulses production. Pulses remain a key part of India’s food system, and increasing domestic output is considered important for reducing dependence on imports and ensuring nutritional security. The minister also discussed the challenges facing kharif crop cultivation due to uneven rainfall patterns across the country. He said rainfall levels were currently around 19 per cent below normal, though the situation varied significantly between regions.

While some districts have received more than 50 per cent less rainfall, others have experienced excessive rainfall, creating different agricultural challenges across states. Chauhan said the government was closely monitoring the rainfall situation and had already prepared district-wise contingency plans to address possible impacts on farming activities. He explained that these plans had been shared with state governments and that nodal officers had been appointed in every state to coordinate responses and provide regular updates on ground conditions.

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The agriculture minister said he personally conducts weekly review meetings to assess the situation and ensure that necessary measures are being taken. The government is monitoring crop conditions, rainfall patterns and farmer requirements to respond quickly in areas facing weather-related difficulties. The minister’s comments came during an ICAR event where several agricultural innovations were introduced. A total of 43 improved crop varieties, 17 advanced agricultural technologies and 14 publications were released during the programme.

These developments were presented as part of efforts to strengthen agricultural research and provide farmers with improved tools and techniques. Chauhan also addressed concerns related to the availability of fertilisers amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia. He assured farmers that there was no shortage of fertilisers in the country and said the government was taking necessary steps to maintain supply chains. India’s agricultural sector has increasingly focused on improving productivity through scientific research, climate-resilient farming practices and better crop management.

With changing weather patterns affecting cultivation, researchers and policymakers have been exploring ways to develop crop varieties that can withstand environmental challenges while maintaining yields. The minister’s remarks underline the government’s focus on combining scientific innovation with traditional agricultural approaches. By encouraging research in both GM and non-GM areas, authorities aim to improve crop production, strengthen food security and support farmers facing challenges from climate variability and changing market conditions.

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