Amid ongoing farmer protests at the borders of Punjab and Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized his government's commitment to prioritize rural development and enhance the livelihoods of small-scale farmers through various schemes and initiatives.
Addressing a gathering of nearly one lakh individuals, primarily comprising cattle rearers and farmers, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, Ahmedabad, during the golden jubilee celebration of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which owns the 'Amul' dairy brand, the Prime Minister underscored the significance of bolstering the rural economy to achieve the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India).
Highlighting the BJP government's ambitious plan to establish 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), PM Modi emphasized the mission to transform small farmers into "agri-entrepreneurs and exporters."
During his address, he outlined various schemes aimed at benefiting farmers and rural dwellers, including Micro ATMs, the GOBARdhan scheme, and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras.
PM Modi mentioned initiatives such as installing Micro ATMs in villages for convenient cash withdrawals by cattle rearers, and the introduction of RuPay credit cards for them, with a pilot project already underway in Banaskantha and Panchmahal districts.
Reiterating Mahatma Gandhi's belief that India's essence lies in its villages, PM Modi stressed the imperative of a robust rural economy for a developed India.
The government's focus extends to improving the lives of small farmers, enhancing livestock health, and promoting income generation through allied activities like fishing and beekeeping. To this end, the Prime Minister announced plans to provide Kisan credit cards to fishermen and cattle rearers.
Highlighting efforts to combat climate change, PM Modi mentioned the distribution of climate-resilient seeds and the launch of a free vaccination drive worth Rs 15,000 crore to protect livestock from foot-and-mouth disease.
The establishment of Kisan Samridhi Kendras nationwide aims to provide farmers with scientific solutions to agricultural challenges, while support is also provided for the production of organic fertilizers.
Emphasizing the transition towards renewable energy, PM Modi mentioned initiatives like solar panel installations in fields and bio-gas plants utilizing cow dung to produce energy and fertilizer, thus converting food grain growers into producers of energy and fertilizers.
The government's commitment to empowering small farmers is reflected in the creation of FPOs, with nearly 8,000 already established. PM Modi assured assistance to these organizations, along with Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
Additionally, the Prime Minister announced decisions taken during a recent cabinet meeting, including the reduction of premiums under the Livestock Insurance program for farmers.
Reflecting on Gujarat's past droughts, PM Modi highlighted the transformative impact of Narmada river water on previously arid regions, along with the construction of 60,000 Amrit Sarovars (lakes) to strengthen the rural economy. Efforts to integrate farmers with modern technology, such as drip irrigation, aim to further enhance agricultural productivity in the state.
Read also | Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Leader, Upgraded to Z-Plus Security
Read also | PM Modi to address women's rally in Barasat on March 6, may meet Sandeshkhali victims
