25 Crore Soil Health Cards Distributed Kisan Credit Cards Promoting Broader Access to Credit
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, addressed the 16th Agriculture Leadership Conclave in New Delhi, highlighting significant advancements in India’s agricultural sector. He announced that 25 crore Soil Health Cards have been distributed to farmers to encourage balanced fertilizer use, alongside the accessibility of crop loans through the Kisan Credit Card initiative. Goyal emphasized the government’s commitment to agriculture under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting the benefits of various schemes aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing market access.
Government Initiatives to Support Farmers
During his speech, Goyal elaborated on the government’s initiatives that prioritize the agricultural sector. He mentioned the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi scheme, which has provided financial assistance to numerous farmer families. Furthermore, he highlighted the integration of 1,400 mandis with the e-NAM platform, allowing farmers to access real-time crop price information and improve market linkages. This integration is part of a broader strategy to modernize agriculture and make it more accessible to farmers across the country.
Subsidies and Support in Fertilizer Sector
The Minister also discussed the substantial subsidies provided by the Central Government to ensure that fertilizers remain affordable for farmers. He noted that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government ensured timely fertilizer supply, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the agricultural community. Goyal pointed out that India’s agricultural sector has shown remarkable resilience despite global market challenges, with agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries exports reaching ₹4 lakh crore. This performance underscores the vital role of farmers in contributing to a stable economy.
Future Prospects for Agricultural Development
Looking ahead, Goyal expressed optimism about the future of agriculture in India. He emphasized the government’s focus on enhancing seed production, promoting natural and organic farming, and improving irrigation methods, including drip irrigation. The introduction of digital agriculture technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and geospatial technology, is expected to revolutionize farming practices. These innovations will support Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives, further strengthening the agricultural sector.
Value Addition and Economic Contribution
Goyal also highlighted the importance of value addition through food processing, which can significantly enhance agriculture’s contribution to the economy. He mentioned ongoing government schemes aimed at improving design, branding, and packaging in the agricultural sector. Investments in warehousing and storage infrastructure are also part of the government’s strategy to bolster agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries. Goyal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure and prosperous future for India’s farmers, emphasizing that agriculture remains a crucial driver in the journey towards a developed India.
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