Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to deliver the plenary address at the India Today Group's Kisan Tak Bharat Agriculture Conference 2026, a significant two-day event scheduled for November 11-12 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
The conference, under the theme "Smart Kisan, Viksit Bharat," aims to gather approximately 2,000 farmers, policymakers, scientists, diplomats, and industry leaders. Key discussions will revolve around enhancing farmer incomes, integrating advanced agricultural technologies like AI, bolstering climate resilience in farming practices, and expanding India's agricultural export capabilities.
Shaping India's Agricultural Future
The Union Agriculture Ministry and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are collaborating with Kisan Tak for this pivotal summit. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that the conference is critical for charting a growth roadmap for the sector, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision for a 'Viksit Bharat 2047'. Chouhan highlighted that smart farming encompasses not just modern technology but also sustainable soil health, cost reduction for farmers, and income enhancement.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Indian economy, employing approximately 46% of the nation's workforce. The Economic Survey 2025–26 noted a record foodgrain production of 357.73 million tonnes, underscoring the sector's vitality.
Voices from the Field and Global Expertise
A central feature of the conference will be presentations from around 20 farmers across India, who will share their firsthand experiences in agricultural innovation, entrepreneurship, and climate-resilient farming techniques. This group includes celebrated Padma Shri recipients such as Rahibai Soma Popere, Trinity Saioo, Nek Ram Sharma, Sultan Singh, and Sundaram Verma.
Sessions will delve into topics such as precision farming, the application of artificial intelligence in resource management, the development of climate-resilient crop varieties, and strategies to reduce inefficiencies within agricultural supply chains.
Distinguished Participants and Industry Insights
The event is expected to draw a high-profile attendance, including Union Ministers JP Nadda, Piyush Goyal, and Chirag Paswan, alongside Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Chief Ministers Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh and Nayab Singh Saini of Haryana are also confirmed participants.
International agricultural experts and representatives from esteemed research institutions like the International Potato Center, ICRISAT, WorldFish, and the International Water Management Institute are also anticipated to contribute. Veejay Nakra, President of Mahindra & Mahindra's Farm Equipment Business, pointed out that technology and innovation are crucial for improving productivity and making farming more rewarding while unlocking the next phase of growth for Indian agriculture.
The conference will conclude with Prime Minister Modi's plenary address, following two days of intensive discussions and cultural performances by artists including Padma Shri folk singer Prahlad Tipanya, poet Rudra Pratap Rudra, and Bhojpuri singer Chandan Tiwari, with Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari also participating.