In a significant address at the “Natural and Organic Farmers Summit 2025” held in Shankarpalli near Hyderabad, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, highlighted the transformative role of agritech startups in revolutionizing rural livelihoods. The Minister’s remarks, made on Saturday, underscored the intelligent fusion of traditional organic farming practices with advanced technology, driving a new wave of opportunities in rural India.
Singh praised the efforts of grassroots innovators and farmer-entrepreneurs who are leveraging science and technology to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure sustainable incomes. He noted that agritech startups are no longer confined to mere farming activities but are actively applying scientific innovations developed by institutions like the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). These startups are utilizing tools such as drones and soil health cards to make farming more efficient and cost-effective, thereby cultivating more in less time while prioritizing health and environmental sustainability.
The Minister emphasized that organic agriculture, once considered a niche and challenging endeavor, is now on the brink of becoming mainstream. This shift is driven by growing health concerns and increased awareness about the detrimental effects of chemical pesticides on lifestyle-related diseases. Singh pointed out that the prevalence of conditions like diabetes, fatty liver, and cancer is alarmingly high, and the role of chemically laden produce cannot be overlooked. Organic farming, he asserted, is not just a healthier choice but a necessary one for the well-being of the population.
Beyond health benefits, Singh highlighted the broader impact of agritech startups on employment generation and rural development. He cited successful initiatives like the Purple Revolution and the Aroma Mission, which have demonstrated the potential of agri-startups in creating lucrative livelihoods and fostering rural growth. Additionally, he spotlighted emerging technologies such as the Pheromone Application Device (PAD) being developed by IIT Hyderabad. This eco-friendly pest control method aims to reduce pesticide usage, further emphasizing the role of technology in sustainable agriculture.
Singh’s address reinforced the government’s commitment to uplifting the rural economy as a crucial step towards India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He stressed that the farmer of today is an agri-entrepreneur, and the agricultural field is evolving into a hub of opportunity rather than a place of hardship. By tapping into the vast, underexplored potential of agriculture, India can achieve significant economic growth and rural development.
