Empowering Farmers: Highlights from Kisan Samman Diwas
On National Farmers Day 2024, Union Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressed a significant gathering at the Kisan Samman Diwas and Farmers and Rural Development Beneficiaries Conference. This event took place at the Council of Agricultural Research – Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute in Pune, Maharashtra. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the lives of farmers and rural residents through various housing and agricultural initiatives.
Housing Initiatives Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
During his address, Shri Chouhan highlighted the success of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin Plus (+). He announced that Maharashtra has received approval for 13,29,678 houses for the financial year 2024-25. The survey work for these houses has been completed, and the final list is now being prepared. The minister expressed his determination that no individual should be deprived of a pucca house. The state has set an ambitious target of constructing a total of 19,66,767 houses in the same financial year, with an estimated expenditure of ₹29,501 crore.
This initiative marks Maharashtra as the first state in India to be assigned the highest target for house construction under this scheme. The government aims to ensure that even those who previously did not qualify—such as individuals with two-wheelers or telephones—can now benefit from the housing scheme. The new criteria allow people with a monthly income of ₹15,000 and those owning more than five acres of un-irrigated land to qualify for assistance. This inclusive approach aims to uplift the living standards of many families across the state.
Focus on Women Empowerment
Shri Chouhan also addressed the importance of women empowerment in his speech. He stated that the government has set a target to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didi across the country. So far, 1.15 crore women have been empowered through this initiative. The minister emphasized that self-help groups for women play a crucial role in bolstering the Indian economy. By providing women with financial independence and opportunities, the government aims to foster a more equitable society.
The focus on women’s empowerment aligns with the broader goals of rural development. By supporting women, the government not only enhances their economic status but also strengthens families and communities. This initiative reflects a commitment to gender equality and the recognition of women’s contributions to agriculture and rural development.
Advancements in Agriculture Sector
In his address, the Union Minister discussed the significant advancements in the agriculture sector under the current government. He pointed out that during the UPA government, the budget for agriculture was merely ₹23,000 crore. In contrast, the Modi government has increased this budget to ₹1,27,000 crore. Additionally, the government has provided a subsidy of ₹1,94,000 crore across 45 different programs aimed at supporting farmers.
Shri Chouhan urged a shift towards natural farming practices while maintaining production levels. He emphasized the need for sustainable agriculture that benefits not just humans but all living creatures. The minister called for a reduction in pesticide use and highlighted the importance of developing technologies that optimize water usage for irrigation. He also mentioned that the government has invested ₹1,166 lakh crore in various ongoing schemes under the National Food Security Program, aiming to double farmers’ incomes.
A Commitment to Rural Development
The Kisan Samman Diwas and Farmers and Rural Development Beneficiaries Conference served as a platform for the government to reaffirm its commitment to rural development and farmer welfare. With ambitious housing targets, a focus on women empowerment, and significant investments in agriculture, the government aims to uplift the rural population. The presence of Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other senior officials at the event underscores the collaborative effort required to achieve these goals. As the government continues to implement these initiatives, it hopes to create a more prosperous and equitable future for farmers and rural communities across India.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn