Moga: Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan spent Thursday in Punjab’s Moga district, engaging directly with farming families as part of his outreach tour across the state. The visit focused on understanding local challenges, reviewing rural initiatives and reinforcing the Centre’s commitment to agricultural development.
Chouhan stopped at Ransih Kalan village, where residents turned out in large numbers to welcome him. In a gesture that blended grassroots connection with Punjab’s famed hospitality, the Minister joined village Sarpanch Mintu’s family for a homemade spread of sarson da saag, makki di roti and a glass of chilled lassi. Sitting on a charpai in the courtyard, he thanked the villagers for their warmth, saying their reception reflected the deeply rooted spirit of Punjabi culture.
Conversations with local farmers revolved around crop-residue management, long-term sustainability and improving income opportunities in rural areas. Acknowledging that stubble burning remains a persistent challenge, Chouhan underlined the need for practical solutions that help farmers transition to cleaner, more profitable practices. He noted that Punjab’s significant reduction—over 80 per cent—in stubble-burning incidents marks a positive shift and could serve as an example for other states.
Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar, who accompanied the Minister, echoed this view. He pointed out that while the issue is tied to real pressures faced by farmers, innovations and farmer-centric policies have the potential to convert the problem into economic benefit. Continuous dialogue, he said, is essential to shape solutions that actually work on the ground.
During the visit, Chouhan also interacted with beneficiaries of central rural-development schemes, seeking their feedback on implementation and gaps that need attention. Earlier, he commended Ransih Kalan for its efforts in promoting environmental awareness, social reform and community-driven development—areas he said are crucial for strengthening rural India.
The visit, marked by candid conversations and cultural camaraderie, highlighted the Centre’s push to position farmers at the core of its development agenda.
