India’s Population a Strength, Not Weakness: Agriculture Minister on Farm Policy

By A Staff Reporter

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that agricultural policy decisions will prioritise cultivators, regardless of any personal or political cost.

Speaking in Delhi, Chouhan emphasised that India’s population of 144 crore should be viewed as an asset rather than a limitation. Drawing comparisons, he noted that Europe’s population stands at around 50 crore and the United States’ at approximately 30 crore, underscoring the scale of India’s domestic market.

He said the country’s size and consumption potential provide a significant buffer for agricultural products, even if access to certain international markets is affected. According to Chouhan, this demographic advantage was a key factor in the government’s recent decision-making on farm policy.

The minister added that the search for new export destinations would continue, but the strength of the domestic market means a substantial portion of produce can be absorbed within India itself.