Dhami govt committed to agricultural growth and double farmers’ income

DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Uttarakhand government is making significant efforts to improve the agricultural sector and uplift farmers’ livelihoods. The state’s agriculture department is running several welfare schemes aimed at boosting farming, along with facilitating access to key central government programs that directly benefit the farmers.

One of the major initiatives is the distribution of certified seeds, provision of agricultural equipment, irrigation facilities, fertilizers, pest control, and crop insurance to farmers. In collaboration with the central government, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme is extending financial support to 8.88 lakh registered farmers in Uttarakhand, who receive ₹6,000 annually through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). For the fiscal year 2024-25, a total of ₹178.04 crore has been allocated, and thus far, ₹2,757.20 crore has been distributed to beneficiaries under the scheme.

Additionally, the government is promoting soil testing under the Soil Health Card Scheme, encouraging farmers to test the nutrients in their soil to improve crop yields. The Government of India has earmarked ₹508.89 lakh for this initiative in the current financial year.

To further support sustainable agriculture, organic farming is being promoted in selected villages under the Traditional Agricultural Development Scheme. The program currently operates in 3,900 clusters, with the Indian government allocating ₹13,127.40 lakh for its implementation.

Special Program for SC-ST Farmers: Recognizing the need for inclusive growth, the Dhami government has introduced a special agricultural development program targeting smallholder farmers from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). For the current financial year, a provision of ₹700 lakh has been made to assist selected villages under this program.

With these extensive efforts, the Uttarakhand government, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Dhami, continues to prioritize agricultural development. The state’s initiatives are focused on enhancing farming practices, boosting productivity, and striving towards doubling farmers’ income while ensuring the holistic development of the agricultural sector.