Agricultural Fairs Becoming a ‘Milestone’ in Introducing Farmers to Advanced Technology – Agriculture & Horticulture Minister

Jaipur : Agriculture & Horticulture Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena stated that farmers can enhance their production by adopting advanced scientific techniques. Agricultural fairs play a crucial role in familiarizing farmers with new technologies, and these fairs will serve as a ‘milestone’ in raising awareness about modern agricultural practices. He made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the agricultural fair organized in Jobner, Jaipur, in collaboration with Jobner Agricultural University and the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA).

Dr. Meena emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions launching schemes that boost farmers’ productivity and make them self-reliant. With the support of government initiatives, farmers are becoming increasingly prosperous. He assured that difficulties faced in claim distribution under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and crop-cutting experiments will be resolved to ensure maximum benefits for farmers. In cases where farmers suffer over 33% crop loss due to hailstorms, excessive rainfall, or other natural calamities, the central and state governments promptly conduct girdawari (damage assessment) and provide compensation.

He further added that farmers engaged in both agriculture and animal husbandry are also entitled to compensation in case of accidental livestock deaths. Previously, farmers faced difficulties in receiving subsidy payments, but now funds are directly transferred to their bank accounts. Due to the relentless efforts of the Prime Minister, even Rajasthan’s sandy dunes are witnessing flourishing crops. Today, farmers are strengthening their economic status by cultivating horticultural crops. If all farmers adopt advanced scientific farming methods, PM Modi’s vision of doubling farmers’ income will soon become a reality. The agriculture department also plans to send farmers to countries like the Netherlands and Denmark to learn advanced techniques for increasing production.

Chairman of the Farmers’ Commission, C.R. Chaudhary, remarked that agricultural fairs enable farmers to learn new techniques and boost their yield. He highlighted India’s global standing as a capable agrarian nation. Urging farmers to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers in favor of organic alternatives, he warned that excessive chemical use is depleting soil fertility. He advised farmers to focus on production quality, as maintaining global competitiveness requires high-quality agricultural output.

Agriculture & Horticulture Secretary Rajan Vishal highlighted the significant role of agricultural universities in providing farmers with advanced technology and high-quality seeds. Addressing the agricultural strategy for the state, he emphasized the “4 P’s”—Planning, Production, Procurement, and Processing. He stressed that processing is crucial for ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce and encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable practices to secure their livelihoods.

He further noted that during the Rising Rajasthan Global Summit, 2,400 MoUs worth approximately ₹50,000 crore were signed in the agricultural sector, with 15% of them already being implemented. The state government aims to expand processing facilities to maximize farmers’ benefits. He also urged agricultural universities to develop crop varieties based on market demand, helping farmers increase their production. While 42% of India’s farmers are women, Rajasthan leads with 55% female participation in agriculture. He mentioned that the central government is expected to sanction a ₹2,200 crore budget under the National Agriculture Development Scheme, marking a 35% increase from the previous year, which will facilitate the implementation of more agricultural schemes.

During the fair, 12 progressive farmers were honored with certificates for their outstanding contributions in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy, fisheries, organic farming, innovative farming, and agricultural product processing under the ATMA scheme.