Emphasis on technology and innovation to boost agricultural production: CM
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi is emphasizing the importance of the Global South and strongly advocating for the interests of developing countries. At a time when the world is turning its attention to the Global South, there is a growing need for cooperation and partnership to achieve collective development.
CM was addressing the 20th India-Africa Business Conclave 2025, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), at the Taj Palace in New Delhi today. He emphasized that global challenges can only be addressed through the unity of the Global South. Reflecting this vision, India and Africa are working together to build a future rooted in mutual trust and cooperation, driven by technology and inclusive prosperity. The relationship between India and Africa goes beyond business; it is also deeply connected through shared historical and cultural values.
The Chief Minister said that bilateral trade between India and Africa has increased from US$ 25 billion in 2006 to over US$ 83 billion today, reflecting the deepening economic engagement and expanding opportunities between the two regions. India now ranks among Africa’s top five trading partners. This growing partnership spans multiple dimensions, including trade, investment, technology, value chains, and development cooperation.
Saini said that India’s partnership with Africa is steadily expanding across key sectors such as energy, healthcare, digital public goods, skill development, agriculture, and education. He added that, in collaboration with the CII, business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts are coming together to exchange ideas and chart a new course for future cooperation.
The Chief Minister said that the conclave is not merely a series of meetings, but a dynamic platform for fostering entrepreneurship-driven partnerships. He highlighted that agriculture plays a vital role in India's economy, serving as a major source of employment. Despite the challenges posed by global warming, India continues to be a global leader in the production of several agricultural commodities.
Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, the agriculture sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, leading to greater prosperity for farmers. In the country’s agriculture sector, emphasis is being placed on technology and innovation to boost production, optimize resource management, and improve market access. Our primary goal is to increase agricultural output while making farming a sustainable and profitable venture.
Providing details about the facilities being given to farmers, the Chief Minister said that the ‘Meri Fasal-Mera Byora’ portal has been launched to facilitate access to fertilizers, seeds, loans, and agricultural equipment alongside crop sales. The farmers can sell their produce at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and receive timely payments through the ‘e-Kharid’ portal. Several initiatives have also been undertaken to promote water conservation and improve groundwater levels. An incentive of Rs 8,000 is being offered to farmers who grow alternative crops instead of paddy, while an incentive of Rs 10,000 per hectare is provided for direct sowing of paddy. Furthermore, an 85 per cent subsidy is available for adopting micro-irrigation practices.
The Chief Minister said that new initiatives have been introduced to increase farmers’ incomes. Organic and natural farming are being promoted to enhance soil health. Encouraging the use of solar energy in agriculture, including the installation of solar pumps, is a significant step towards renewable energy adoption. Additionally, 108 mandis have been linked to the e-NAM platform to connect farmers directly with markets through digital means. The conclave’s key objectives include advancing water conservation and promoting climate-smart farming practices.
The Chief Minister said that financial incentives are being provided to entrepreneurs to establish units under the food processing policy, promoting youth-led entrepreneurship. So far, 9,500 startups have been launched by young people in the state. He added that there is a target to increase women’s participation in startups from 50 per cent to 60 per cent. Addressing all partners on the platform, he emphasized the importance of working together, sharing experiences, and exchanging best practices.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also visited the exhibition organized by CII
At the India-Africa Business Conclave, several dignitaries shared their views, including John Michael Yen Sik Yun, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Protection of the Republic of Mauritius; Parks Mpho Tao, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of the Republic of South Africa; Quetta Belde, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau; Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India; R. K. Mukundan, President-designate of CII; Abhimanyu Saraf, President of Haryana CCI; and other distinguished attendees.