New Delhi: Pitching a strong vision for the future of agriculture, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday emphasised the growing convergence of farming and technology as the foundation for a “developed India,” while addressing the 122nd Foundation Day celebrations of
Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI).
Attending as the chief guest, the Chief Minister lauded the role of scientists and researchers, stating that the institute has been instrumental in bridging “the gap between farms and laboratories,” and shaping Indian agriculture from the Green Revolution to modern innovations. She said IARI has played a “crucial role in strengthening the country’s farmers” and reinforcing food security.
During the event, Gupta released two publications, ‘Improved Crop Varieties for Food, Nutrition and Livelihood Security’ and ‘Precision Floriculture and Landscape Design’, and visited an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Interacting with scientists, she appreciated their research and innovation.
Highlighting the broader vision, she said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Developed India’ is rooted in ‘developed agriculture and prosperous farmers.’” She added that agriculture is becoming “more modern, efficient and sustainable through precision farming, climate-smart agriculture and AI-based technologies.”
Focusing on environmental priorities, Gupta stressed that “conservation is the need of the hour” and called for increased efforts in “tree plantation, vertical gardening, water conservation and rainwater harvesting.” She also urged prioritising native tree species such as peepal, neem, banyan and mango.
The Chief Minister announced that “for the first time, around 4,200 hectares of the Ridge area have been notified to expand green cover,” and sought IARI’s support in improving soil fertility, promoting urban greenery and undertaking scientific plantation. She called on stakeholders to contribute towards “improving groundwater levels, agricultural development and urban farming.”
Delhi Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh echoed similar concerns, highlighting the need to revive traditional water systems. “Their restoration would help improve groundwater levels and water quality
in Delhi,” he said, referring to johads and ponds. He also cautioned that “excessive use of chemical fertilisers… has adversely affected both the environment and public health,” while noting a shift towards organic farming.
He added that “organic produce must receive fair prices” to ensure farmers are economically strengthened, expressing confidence that collective efforts would make Delhi “cleaner, greener and healthier.”