Agricultural exhibitions’ are vital for farmers to access information about new technologies in the sector – Chief Minister Eknath Shinde

Pandharpur, 16th: Agricultural exhibitions play a crucial role in providing farmers with insights into new technologies in agriculture. Adopting these advancements can significantly boost their crop yields and contribute to their economic upliftment. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized the importance of such exhibitions that disseminate knowledge about new agricultural technologies to benefit farmers.

He made these remarks at the inauguration of ‘Karmayogi Sudhakarpant Paricharak Krishi Mahamahotsav-Krishi Pandhari 2024’ held at the premises of Krishi Produk Bazar Samiti and Pandurang Pratishthan. Also present at the event were Guardian Minister Chandrakant Patil, Karmayogi Sudhakarpant Parichara Pandurang Cooperative Sugar Factory President Prashant Parichara, Collector Kumar Ashirwad, District President Agriculture Officer Dattatray Gavasane, Agriculture Produce Market Committee Chairman Harish Gaikwad, and Deputy Chairman Rajubapu Gawde.

“Farmers are the backbone of our society, and understanding their hardships, the government has implemented various schemes to double their income,” Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said. “These include expanding the coverage for crop damage due to natural calamities, providing assistance beyond the State Disaster Response Fund criteria, and allocating Rs. 15,000 crore for crop damage relief over the past two years.”

He also highlighted initiatives like solar energy pumps to ensure uninterrupted daytime electricity for farmers, the ‘one rupee crop insurance scheme’, the ‘Namo Shetkari Maha Sanman Nidhi Yojana’ providing Rs. 12,000 annually, and waivers on electricity payments for farmers. Additionally, schemes like drip irrigation, increased milk subsidies by five rupees, and support for bamboo cultivation aim to assist farmers with a total aid of around Rs. 44,000 crore through various welfare programs.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed the administration to ensure all eligible individuals benefit from these schemes and emphasized the government’s commitment to economic empowerment and self-reliance among women. He announced benefits such as Rs. 18,000 per year under the ‘Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana’ and three free gas cylinders annually under the Annapurna Yojana. The state also plans to waive 100% educational and examination fees for female students across government, government-aided, and non-government colleges.

“The government is actively promoting youth employment through initiatives like the Yuva Apprenticeship Scheme, offering monthly stipends of Rs. 6,000, Rs. 8,000, and Rs. 10,000 for 12th pass, diploma holders, and graduates respectively,” Mr. Shinde added.

Chief Minister Shri. Shinde inaugurated the event by cutting the ribbon and later toured various exhibition halls, expressing satisfaction. The exhibition features 200 stalls, including those from government departments, women’s self-help groups, and various corporations showcasing products ranging from millet products to agricultural machinery.

Thousands of farmers, laborers, and citizens have visited the Krishi Pandhari exhibition, highlighting its significance in promoting agricultural advancements and rural prosperity.