Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has urged corporate India to play a greater role in transforming the country’s agriculture sector by supporting agri-tech initiatives through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. He emphasized that technology-driven solutions can improve farm productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and help farmers tackle emerging challenges.
Speaking at an event focused on agricultural innovation, the minister highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between the government, private sector, startups, research institutions, and development organizations. He said such partnerships are essential for accelerating the adoption of modern technologies that can make farming more efficient, sustainable, and profitable.
Chouhan noted that Indian agriculture is undergoing rapid transformation, with digital technologies, precision farming, artificial intelligence, drones, and data-driven advisory services offering new opportunities to improve crop yields and resource management. However, he pointed out that many promising innovations struggle to reach farmers because of limited financial support and inadequate infrastructure.
The minister encouraged companies to use their CSR resources to bridge this gap by investing in agricultural technology projects, supporting startups, and expanding access to innovative solutions in rural areas. According to him, CSR funding can play a vital role in scaling technologies that benefit small and marginal farmers, who make up a significant share of India’s farming community.
He stressed that empowering farmers with modern tools and knowledge would contribute to higher incomes, better crop quality, and improved resilience against climate-related risks. Chouhan also underscored the importance of creating an ecosystem where innovators, entrepreneurs, and farmers can work together to address sector-specific challenges through practical and affordable solutions.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting innovation in agriculture through supportive policies, research, and capacity-building initiatives. He said efforts are being made to encourage the development and adoption of technologies that enhance productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Chouhan further observed that agriculture remains the backbone of the Indian economy, supporting millions of livelihoods across the country. He added that investments in agri-tech would not only modernize farming practices but also create employment opportunities, improve market access, and strengthen the overall agricultural value chain.
Calling for collective action, the minister urged industry leaders, corporate houses, and other stakeholders to join hands in building a future-ready agricultural ecosystem. He said that combining public initiatives with private-sector expertise and CSR investments can accelerate innovation and ensure that the benefits of technology reach farmers at the grassroots level.
The appeal reflects the government’s broader vision of promoting sustainable agricultural growth through innovation, collaboration, and inclusive development. By encouraging greater corporate participation in agri-tech, the government aims to create long-term solutions that enhance productivity, improve farmers’ welfare, and contribute to India’s food security and rural prosperity.
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