Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare highlighted the importance of Life Style for the Environment and stressed chemical-free farming
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare organised an event on Mission LiFE on the occasion of ‘World Environment Day’ at Dr C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Pusa, New Delhi. The program began with tree plantation activity on the premises of the venue by Kailash Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, with other dignitaries. Manoj Ahuja, Secretary DA&FW, Additional Secretaries and Joint Secretaries of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare were present at the event along with a staff of ICAR and DA&FW, FPOs, Agri-start-ups, Students, Scientists, Officers and Farmers from various States. This was followed by the inauguration of an exhibition on Natural and Organic Farming showcasing and creating awareness of the sustainable agricultural practices symbolising Mission LiFE.
The program was inaugurated by Kailash Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, by lighting the lamp. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of Life Style for the Environment and stressed chemical-free farming as one important option for sustaining the resources for future generations. He emphasised the adoption of Mission LiFE in agriculture to address the adverse impact of climate change. Quoting the example of Rajasthan, he mentioned that the state is having pre-monsoon showers more frequently than in earlier years. Untimely and heavy rains are causing distress to the farming community. Farmers are highly vulnerable to climate change. Keeping this in mind ICAR developed 1750 climate-resilient varieties after 2016 and these have the potential to give normal yields under adverse conditions in vulnerable areas. He also stressed upon recycling of wastes in agriculture as it is the best example of the circular economy. He emphasised that we should all take care in day-to-day life to save resources. Then, he administered the pledge on Mission LiFE with all the audience present at the event.
In his address, Manoj Ahuja, Secretary, DA&FW briefed on the global temperatures rise from the pre-industrial era and its direct and indirect impacts on agriculture and allied sectors. Maintenance of soil health through natural and organic practices having a beneficial effect on soil flora and fauna is leading to better availability of nutrients in the soil. He also mentioned the saving of water through the adoption of Per Drop More Crop as India consumes more water for irrigation compared to other countries. There is a need to adopt all the 7 principles of MissionLiFE in day-to-day agricultural practices besides making policy towards sustainable agriculture.
