Union Agriculture Minister Unveils ₹18,000 Crore Horticulture Cluster Initiative Amidst Opposition Uproar

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced an ₹18,000 crore investment for 100 export-oriented horticulture clusters. The minister also revealed a ₹6,800 crore oilseeds mission. His statements sparked controversy, leading to heated exchanges and a walkout by opposition Congress members who accused him of ignoring farmers' issues.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday announced a significant ₹18,000 crore investment aimed at setting up 100 export-oriented horticulture clusters over the next five years, in a bid to boost farm income. The announcement forms a key part of the Modi government's short-term roadmap for the agricultural sector.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Chouhan also disclosed a ₹6,800 crore oilseeds mission aimed at reducing the need for cooking oil imports, while attacking the Congress for their alleged neglect of the agricultural sector during their extended tenure post-Independence. The statements led to heated exchanges, with Congress leaders demanding a legal guarantee on MSP and questioning the accuracy of the minister's claims. This resulted in a walkout by the opposition members.

Despite opposition uproar, Chouhan underscored the Modi government's efforts to elevate farmers' income, including the PM-KISAN scheme. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation with state governments, regardless of political affiliations, to resolve farmers' issues effectively. Chouhan concluded by expressing a vision for India to become a global food basket by 2047.