Sri H.M. Nagaraju inaugurating the Vikasit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan program held at Sri Sutturkshetra, organized by the ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, in the divine presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shviarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji. Sri Mallayya Swami, Sri M. Madangopal, Prof. Mallepuram G. Venkatesh, Sri Mahima Patel and progressive farmers are seen in the picture.
Suttur, May 31, 2025: His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji emphasized the importance of chemical-free farming while speaking at the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan program held at Suttur on May 29, 2025. The event was organized by the ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).
In his benedictory address, His Holiness expressed concern that excessive use of chemical fertilizers has led to soil degradation and food toxicity. “Farmers must give importance to organic farming. Just as human beings undergo regular medical check-ups, soil too should be examined periodically to maintain its health,” he said. He urged farmers to combine ancient agricultural wisdom with modern technology and to seek guidance from agricultural science centers to improve their farming practices.
Sri H.M. Nagaraju, Joint Director of the Horticulture Department, Mysuru, highlighted the core purpose of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan—farmer education. He noted that Karnataka ranks first in the country in horticultural crop production and encouraged farmers to adopt drip irrigation for water efficiency, prioritize organic methods, and take advantage of government schemes and programs.
Sri M. Madangopala, IAS (Retd.), remarked that a nation’s prosperity depends on the well-being of its farmers. He pointed out that India now leads the world in rice production and advised farmers to select crops suitable to each season.
Former MLA Sri Mahima Patel urged ICAR JSS KVK officials to guide farmers on cultivating rain-dependent crops. He warned against excessive use of chemicals and stated, “Along with organic farming, organic politics is also needed today.”
Prof. Mallepuram G. Venkatesh, former Vice-Chancellor, emphasized that farmers are the backbone of the country and society. He called upon governments to work toward farmers’ welfare and encouraged traditional agricultural practices.
Dr. B.N. Gnanesh, Head of ICAR JSS KVK, provided insights into the objectives of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan.
The event began with an invocation by Matrushri Parvathamma and team. Sri G.L. Tripurantaka delivered the welcome address, while Sri K.P. Basavaraju offered the vote of thanks. The program was compered by Sri Mahadevaprasad.