Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards modernising Indian agriculture, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today launched the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA-2025) at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The nationwide campaign aims to reach over 1.5 crore farmers through the dissemination of advanced agricultural and fisheries technologies, capacity building, and grassroots engagement.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant and sustainable India and places a strong emphasis on integrating science and innovation with farmer outreach.
Addressing a large gathering, Shri Chouhan underlined the critical role of fisheries in food security and rural livelihoods, and called for accelerated technology transfer to farmers to boost incomes and build a resilient aquaculture sector. “All technologies developed by ICAR-CIFA must benefit farmers directly,” he said.
The launch event saw the participation of several key dignitaries, including Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Shri Gokulananda Mallik, MLAs Shri Babu Singh and Shri Ashrit Pattanayak, and top ICAR officials led by Dr. M.L. Jat, Director General of ICAR and Secretary (DARE).
Shri Singh Deo hailed VKSA-2025 as a timely campaign that can fast-track Odisha’s agricultural growth, while Shri Mallik reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to veterinary and livestock services as drivers of rural economic upliftment.
Dr. Jat described VKSA-2025 as a “transformational pre-Kharif campaign”, urging stakeholders to work together to ensure the benefits of scientific advancements reach farmers across the country.
A highlight of the event was the launch of “CIFA Argu VAX–I”, a new vaccine developed by ICAR-CIFA to combat parasitic infections in fish — a breakthrough that promises to enhance fish health and reduce losses in aquaculture.
More than 600 farmers and SHG members participated in an interactive session with scientists, gaining exposure to sustainable farming techniques and integrated agri-aqua practices. An accompanying exhibition showcased grassroots innovations by Self Help Groups, KVK Khordha, and ICAR-CIFA.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rajbir Singh, DDG (Agricultural Extension), who acknowledged the collective efforts that made the event a success.
VKSA-2025 will run from May 29 to June 12, 2025, covering all districts of India in a mission to create a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready agricultural sector.
BI Bureau
