Bengaluru: Karnataka Agriculture Minister N. Chaluvarayaswamy on Friday highlighted the critical role of the farm sector in the state’s economy, saying it contributes around 17% to total income and supports livelihoods of nearly 58% of the population.
Speaking at the Agri-Tech Summit 2026 held at Palace Grounds, he said India’s food production is expected to reach 355 million tonnes in 2025-26, while Karnataka’s output stands at around 155–160 million tonnes.
The minister attributed the growth to government schemes, research by agricultural scientists and the efforts of farmers. He said the state has been focusing on horticulture and value addition, with steps taken to strengthen processing, packaging, branding and market linkages.
Chaluvarayaswamy said the government has announced a ₹100 crore grant over three years under the “Mukhyamantri Krishi Vistara Yojana” in the 2026-27 budget to boost farmers’ income in rural areas.
Highlighting Karnataka’s agricultural diversity, he noted that 49 products from the state have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, enhancing their global market potential.
He added that the state has also emerged as a key player in the food processing sector, with around 6,500 units set up between 2020 and 2025, generating employment for nearly 90,000 people.
Several dignitaries, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, were present at the event.
