New Delhi, May 19 -- Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday said that his ministry's resolve is to increase the Kharif crop production while reducing the production cost. He added that the synergy between the agricultural research and the farmers will be increased.

The Minister was speaking to reporters here after a meeting with the State agricultural ministers.

"Today, I held a meeting with the Agriculture ministers of all the states...Agriculture is important for the country, whether it is a question of livelihood, employment, contribution to the economy or ensuring food security of the country. Our resolve is to increase production and reduce the cost of production of the Kharif crop. We will make our best efforts...