CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Inaugurates 116th All India Kisan Mela and Agro Industry Exhibition in Pantnagar

On Saturday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 116th All India Kisan Mela and Agro Industry Exhibition at Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Pantnagar. The event, a prestigious annual gathering for farmers and agricultural experts, provided a platform for showcasing the latest innovations in agriculture, with a focus on improving farming techniques and boosting farmers’ incomes.

During the event, Chief Minister Dhami visited various exhibition stalls and virtually inaugurated the “Harela Udyan,” an initiative that highlights the significance of environmental conservation. He also honored several progressive farmers from different districts, presenting them with mementoes and certificates for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector.

A Crucial Event for Farmers

In his address, Dhami emphasized the importance of events like the Kisan Mela for the advancement of agriculture. He noted that these fairs serve as vital platforms where scientists, farmers, and entrepreneurs can exchange knowledge on the latest agricultural technologies and innovations. “This fair is like a Kumbh of agriculture, where our farmer brothers get access to advanced seeds, plants, organic fertilizers, and modern agricultural machinery all in one place,” Dhami said. He expressed his hope that farmers would take full advantage of the technological expertise offered at the event to enhance their productivity and incomes.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the crucial role Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant University has played in revolutionizing Indian agriculture. “This university has been a pioneer in driving the Green Revolution in India. It has continuously supported the agricultural sector by developing new crop varieties, advanced farming techniques, and innovative solutions that benefit not only Uttarakhand’s farmers but also farmers across the country,” he said.

Government Initiatives for Farmers’ Welfare

Chief Minister Dhami praised the ongoing efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to improve the lives of farmers nationwide. He pointed out that the Modi government has taken several steps to increase farmers’ incomes, including raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on major crops and launching schemes like the “Kisan Samman Nidhi,” which provides financial aid to farmers. “Under this scheme, more than 8 lakh farmers in Uttarakhand are receiving financial support,” Dhami shared.

The Chief Minister further informed the audience about the state government’s initiatives aimed at promoting modern agricultural practices. Loans of up to Rs 3 lakh are now available to farmers without any interest, and through the “Farm Machinery Bank” scheme, an 80% subsidy is being provided to farmers for purchasing agricultural equipment. He also announced bonuses of Rs 20 per quintal for wheat and similar price hikes for sugarcane. Additionally, irrigation from state canals is now free for farmers, and steps are being taken to convert tea gardens in Dhauladevi, Munsiyari, and Betalghat into organic tea plantations.

Support for Organic and Aroma Farming

To further promote sustainable agriculture, the state government is working on developing six aroma valleys to enhance the production of aromatic crops. Dhami noted that a Rs 200 crore budget has been allocated this year to support the construction of polyhouses, which will not only boost farmers’ incomes but also create new employment opportunities. Another key initiative is the “Uttarakhand Climate Responsive Rainfed Farming Project,” a Rs 1000 crore project designed to elevate rainfed farming in the state’s hilly areas.

The Chief Minister also highlighted efforts to increase fruit production under the Apple and Kiwi Mission. “Farmers growing apple orchards are receiving an 80% subsidy, and the government is providing all possible assistance in setting up kiwi gardens,” Dhami explained. These measures are aimed at turning Uttarakhand into a hub for fruit production, improving both the livelihoods of farmers and the overall economy.

Conclusion

Dr. Manmohan Singh Chauhan, Vice-Chancellor of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant University, lauded the efforts of Chief Minister Dhami and the state government for their relentless focus on agricultural development. He highlighted the university’s contributions to Indian agriculture, including the approval of 28 seed varieties for pulses, 10 of which were developed at Pantnagar. “Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, the state is experiencing rapid development, and the GDP has also seen a significant rise,” Chauhan remarked.

As the event concluded, Chief Minister Dhami reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering farmers with modern tools, resources, and techniques to ensure their prosperity and well-being. The 116th All India Kisan Mela continues to serve as a cornerstone in achieving this vision by promoting innovation and collaboration in the agricultural sector.