Minister Unveils Vision for Self-Reliant Agriculture at Pusa Mela
Union Minister for Agriculture, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently inaugurated the three-day Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research campus in Pusa, Delhi. During the event, he outlined an ambitious roadmap for agricultural reforms, aiming to propel Indian farming towards a more developed and self-reliant future. Chouhan’s message was clear: the tradition of withholding payments from farmers must end, and measures will be implemented to ensure transparency and accountability across various agricultural sectors.
The Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela is renowned for showcasing advancements in agriculture. Shri Chouhan, alongside dignitaries like Union Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi and Director General of ICAR, Dr. M. L. Jat, presided over the ceremony that included a symbolic plantation by farmers. The event was marked by a heartwarming moment where Chouhan personally pushed a differently-abled farmer’s wheelchair to the forefront, emphasizing the central role of farmers in agricultural policy.
New Policies to Protect Farmers’ Earnings
During his address, Chouhan tackled the issue of delayed payments to farmers, issuing a stern warning to agencies and state governments that any withheld dues would incur a 12% interest penalty. He insisted that funds meant for farmers must reach them promptly and pledged that the Central Government would not contribute to any delays. To further streamline the process, there are plans to explore direct transfers to farmers’ accounts when states experience delays.
Strengthening Agricultural Support Systems
Highlighting ongoing support for agricultural mechanization, irrigation systems, and greenhouse setups, Chouhan noted that while over 18 schemes are in place to aid farmers, effective implementation is crucial. He pointed out a concerning disparity in implementation, citing a district where only 158 out of 700 farmers received promised equipment, underscoring the need for robust monitoring systems.
Innovative Structures for Research and Extension
Chouhan emphasized the need for Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to evolve into district-level agricultural reform hubs, bridging the gap between research and field application. By enhancing the role of KVKs, he believed it would facilitate the introduction of new farming techniques and practices, directly benefiting farmers.
Accessible Credit and Timely Resources
The Union Minister reminded that around 75% of small farmers benefit from Kisan Credit Card loans at an interest rate of 4%. However, he expressed frustration over persistent delays in loan disbursement and urged banks to rectify this, highlighting the importance of timely credit access for farmers to avoid reliance on predatory lenders.
Streamlining Pesticide Regulations and MSP Procurement
Addressing the complexities involved in pesticide licensing, Chouhan assured an overhaul of the current system to expedite the availability of quality products to farmers. Further, he discussed the need for shortening the Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement period from three months to one month, enabling farmers to receive fair prices promptly.
Direct Benefits and Future Initiatives
Shri Chouhan noted the significant annual ₹2 lakh crore spent on fertilizer subsidies and suggested considering direct transfers to farmers for greater autonomy in purchasing fertilizers. Looking ahead, he announced the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ (Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign), where teams of scientists will engage with farmers starting in April to share the latest agricultural practices and technologies, ensuring they are well-prepared ahead of the kharif season.
Describing the Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela as a national ‘Kumbh’ for farmers, Chouhan emphasized its role as more than just an exhibition. It serves as a critical platform for scientists, farmers, and policymakers to collaborate, ensuring that scientific advancements and data translate into real-world benefits for the agricultural community. He urged the Indian Agricultural Research Institute to enhance future fairs, further solidifying its role in connecting science with practical farming solutions.
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