The South Zone Regional Agricultural Conference 2026 concluded in Hyderabad today. Addressing the media following the meeting, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the government is taking several steps to support farmers across different agro-climatic regions. He said contingency plans are being prepared for more than 100 southern districts affected by reduced rainfall linked to El Niño.

 

Dedicated seed banks will also be set up in these districts. The measures include promoting alternative crops that require less water. The aim is to reduce drought-related risks. The Minister stressed the need to protect soil health and promote balanced use of fertilisers. He also called for greater adoption of natural farming. To tackle fake and substandard seeds, Mr. Chouhan said the government plans to amend existing laws and introduce a stricter Seed Act. He said Free Trade Agreements will provide better export opportunities for commercial crops and spices from southern states.

 

The Minister announced that the Rabi Conference will be held in New Delhi on 28th and 29th September. Agriculture ministers and officials from all states will attend the conference to finalise plans for the Rabi season. He also said the government will expedite the ‘Lab to Land’ initiative. The programme aims to take scientific research and technologies directly to farmers.

 

Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Bhagirath Choudhary and Agriculture Ministers from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh also attended the conference.