Pantnagar: The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, inaugurated the 116th All India Kisan Mela and Agricultural Industry Exhibition at the Pantnagar University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. On this occasion, he also launched the Haraila Garden virtually and inspected various stalls. During the program, the Chief Minister honored progressive farmers from different districts by presenting them with mementos and certificates of appreciation.
A Platform for Modern Techniques and Information for Farmers
Chief Minister Dhami praised the event, stating that Pantnagar University has established a distinct identity as a pioneer of the Green Revolution in India. He emphasized that such agricultural fairs provide a platform for farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to come together and exchange the latest agricultural technologies and information. Farmers can obtain advanced seeds, agricultural tools, organic fertilizers, and other essential items at these fairs, helping to enhance their income and productivity.
Promoting Innovation in Agriculture
The Chief Minister noted that this fair is a significant event for farmers, connecting them with the latest technologies and innovations. He highlighted the efforts being made under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure farmers’ prosperity. Dhami mentioned that the Prime Minister has increased the MSP for crops and promoted technological innovations to boost farmers’ incomes. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme is benefiting over 800,000 farmers in Uttarakhand.
State Government’s Commitment to Farmers’ Upliftment
Dhami shed light on the state government’s initiatives for farmers’ upliftment. He informed that farmers are being provided interest-free loans up to ₹300,000, along with 80% subsidies under the Farm Machinery Bank scheme. Farmers are receiving a bonus of ₹20 per quintal for wheat procurement, and the price of sugarcane has also been raised by ₹20 per quintal. Efforts are being made to convert tea gardens in Dhualadevi, Munsyari, and Betalghat into organic tea gardens.
Plans to Elevate Agriculture to New Heights in Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister announced a budget provision of ₹2 billion for polyhouse construction, which will enhance farmers’ income and create more employment opportunities. Furthermore, to promote rain-fed farming in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, a “Uttarakhand Climate Responsive Rain-Fed Farming Project” has been approved with an investment of ₹10 billion. The government is also working on boosting apple and kiwi production by launching the Apple and Kiwi Mission in the state, which offers farmers an 80% subsidy for establishing apple orchards.
