Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today asserted that India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047 passes through its farms, fields, and villages. He emphasised that sustainable agriculture, innovation, and research form the bedrock of Viksit Bharat. Mr Birla made these remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the two-day National Conference in New Delhi on “Sustainable Agriculture for Viksit Bharat@2047: Tradition, Technology and Tangible Outcomes.

The Speaker noted that blending traditional knowledge with modern technology will enable India to emerge as a global agricultural leader. He observed that agriculture in India is far more than an economic sector, as it is an integral part of the nation’s culture, civilisation, and way of life. He noted that farming will remain central to the vision of a developed India by ensuring food security, rural prosperity, social harmony and inclusive growth.

Highlighting the challenges posed by climate change and evolving global dynamics, the Lok Sabha Speaker stressed that science-driven, research-backed, and innovation-led agriculture is the need of the hour. He underlined the importance of integrating time-tested traditional wisdom with modern technology to create a farming ecosystem that is sustainable, profitable, and resilient.

Mr Birla observed that youth energy, women’s leadership, and grassroots innovation will provide vital momentum to the rural economy. He called upon teachers, scientists, researchers, policymakers, and farmers to work collectively towards developing self-reliant agricultural models that foster long-term prosperity.