Rampur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 1 (ANI): Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday held an interaction with farmers in Rampur through a 'Chaupal Pe Charcha', where he addressed concerns related to research, fertiliser distribution, and quality of agricultural inputs.

Speaking at the gathering, Chouhan highlighted that agricultural research will no longer remain confined to laboratories or in Delhi. 'Our 16,000 scientists will work in the field among farmers to ensure research aligns with real-time challenges,' he said, adding that scientists will spend at least 15 days with farmers during the Rabi season.

Taking strong note of complaints regarding forced sales of liquid fertilisers, Chouhan said, 'No shopkeeper can compel farmers to purchase any specific fertiliser. Legal mechanisms will be established to prevent such malpractice.'

He also addressed farmers' grievances about substandard seeds, pesticides, and fertilisers. Chouhan stated that the government is moving towards stricter laws under the Pesticide Act and the Seed Act to ensure severe penalties for companies found to be selling fake or low-quality products. 'We will not spare any company engaged in cheating farmers,' he asserted.

The minister added that nano fertilisers, such as Nano Urea, will undergo strict scientific testing before approval. 'Only those products which meet the approved concentration standards will be permitted in the market,' he said.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to farmers' welfare, Chouhan said, 'Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, we are working to ensure the prosperity of farmers and the development of agriculture. Without this, we cannot build a developed India.'

He also pledged to spend two days each week directly among farmers to understand their difficulties and said agriculture department teams would be regularly deployed in the fields. (ANI)