Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the burgeoning role of agri-startups in transforming rural economies by integrating traditional organic farming with advanced scientific technologies. Speaking at the “Natural and Organic Farmers Summit 2025” in Shankarpalli, he praised the innovative spirit of farmers and entrepreneurs who are leveraging science to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
“Agri-startups are revolutionizing farming by applying scientific innovations from institutions like CSIR and utilizing tools like drones and soil health cards,” Dr. Singh stated. “This approach optimizes production, reduces costs, and promotes environmental health.”
He underscored the growing prominence of organic agriculture, driven by heightened health awareness and concerns about chemical pesticides. “With rising lifestyle diseases, organic farming is becoming a necessity, not just a preference,” he asserted.
Dr. Singh highlighted the broader impact of agri-startups on employment and rural development, citing successful initiatives such as the Purple Revolution and Aroma Mission. He noted how lavender cultivation, initially confined to Jammu and Kashmir, has expanded nationwide through scientific interventions from CSIR’s Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine and IICT Hyderabad.
“You don’t need advanced degrees to succeed in this sector,” he remarked, pointing out that many successful startups are founded by individuals with limited formal education. He also illustrated the potential of floriculture, mentioning the tulip cultivation in Himachal Pradesh, which supplied flowers for the Ram Temple consecration in Ayodhya.
Furthermore, Dr. Singh showcased emerging technologies like IIT Hyderabad’s Pheromone Application Device (PAD), which offers eco-friendly pest control, reducing pesticide use.
He encouraged scientists and agri-entrepreneurs to participate in the upcoming National Startup Expo in Hyderabad on April 22-23, assuring government support in terms of finance, technology, and marketing. He commended the Eklavya Grameen Foundation for their efforts in simplifying and promoting organic farming in rural areas.
Dr. Singh concluded by stressing the crucial role of agriculture in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. “Today’s farmer is an agri-entrepreneur, and the field is a hub of opportunity,” he affirmed, highlighting the transformative potential of science-driven agriculture in rural India.
