What's Happening?
On the occasion of the State-level Kisan Diwas in Gauchar, Chamoli, the Uttarakhand government, in collaboration with the central government, transferred Rs 65.12 crore directly to the accounts of 88,000 farmers under the Weather-Based Crop Insurance
Scheme. Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami led the event, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing farmer welfare and agricultural development. Key announcements included the approval of a Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Centre in Mukteshwar for quality saplings and an additional Rs 90 crore for the Gherabadi scheme to prevent crop damage by wild animals. Furthermore, Rs 1,706.94 crore was sanctioned for road construction to improve rural connectivity, supporting agricultural growth.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it underscores the government's focus on bolstering the agricultural sector, which is crucial for the economic stability of Uttarakhand. By directly transferring funds to farmers, the government aims to provide immediate financial relief and support sustainable agricultural practices. The establishment of the Clean Plant Centre and the allocation for road infrastructure are expected to enhance productivity and market access for farmers. These measures are part of a broader strategy to make Uttarakhand a global hub for fruit and vegetable production, which could lead to increased income for farmers and contribute to the state's economic growth.
What's Next?
The government plans to continue its focus on integrated and modern farming techniques, encouraging farmers to diversify into fruits, vegetables, livestock, and medicinal plants. The collaboration with New Zealand to set up a Centre of Excellence for Kiwi is expected to bring advanced agricultural practices to the region. Additionally, the monthly celebration of Kisan Diwas aims to address farmers' issues promptly, ensuring that their concerns are heard and acted upon. These initiatives are part of a long-term vision to transform Uttarakhand's agricultural landscape and improve the livelihoods of its farmers.
