Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan laid the foundation stone for a model Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Agricultural Science Centre in Berkhedi Jetu, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh on June 14, 2026. The 49-acre facility will serve as a live laboratory for modern farming practices, with demonstrations beginning in the current Kharif season without waiting for building construction.
Scientific Farming Roadmap
The KVK will implement a scientific farming roadmap for Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, and Dewas districts based on soil, water, and resource analysis. The center will demonstrate integrated farming techniques combining grains, pulses, oilseeds, horticulture, animal husbandry, fish farming, beekeeping, and mushroom cultivation to show how small farmers with 2.5 acres (one hectare) can achieve sustainable livelihoods.
Key Initiatives Launched
The 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' (Save Farms Campaign) focuses on soil health through intensified soil testing and Soil Health Card issuance. The program promotes balanced fertilizer use, natural and organic farming, with farmers encouraged to try scientific natural farming on at least half an acre. An Agri Clinic will be established where farmers can bring plant, leaf, or soil samples for disease diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Technology and Support Systems
Farmers will have access to advisory services through helpline number 155261 (Bharat Vistaar - Kisan Sarathi) and mobile applications that provide soil nutrient analysis and fertilizer recommendations. Custom Hiring Centres and Machine Banks will make modern equipment like laser levellers, Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) machines, and drip-sprinkler systems available for nominal rent to small and marginal farmers.
Value Addition and Processing
The KVK will provide training in value addition and food processing for tomatoes, vegetables, fruits, and grains, including packaging and market linkage support to encourage agriculture-based startups. Skill development programs will cover mushroom production, poultry, beekeeping, and dairy activities.
Pulses and Oilseeds Mission
The initiative accelerates the 'Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission' by providing free demonstration plots with good seeds and promoting cluster-based farming. The government assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement for pulses including pigeon pea, black gram, and lentil. Subsidies up to ₹25 lakh will be provided for setting up dal mills in high-production areas.
Implementation and Participation
The program involves collaboration between scientists, KVKs, ICAR, state governments, public representatives, Self-Help Groups, FPOs, and farmer organizations. The event was attended by Madhya Pradesh Agriculture Minister Aidal Singh Kansana, Revenue Minister Karan Singh, ICAR Director General Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, and representatives from CII, Dhanuka, and IFFCO.