NEW DELHI: Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya engaged in a virtual interaction with over 3,000 farmers from various states across India through the vast network of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras (PMKSK), which number around 1.60 lakh nationwide. During this session, he actively sought their valuable feedback.

Mandaviya emphasized the significance of PMKSKs, explaining that these centers aim to establish a comprehensive "One-Stop Shop" network comprising over 2 lakh such Centres. This network's primary objective is to provide farmers with access to high-quality agricultural products while enhancing their knowledge and understanding of farming practices.

He highlighted how PMKSKs are rapidly evolving into central hubs for agricultural outreach, the dissemination of cutting-edge agricultural knowledge, fostering dialogue with the farming community, and promoting extension activities in collaboration with agricultural universities. He emphasized that these centers are not merely retail outlets for fertilizers and equipment but are institutions dedicated to the welfare of farmers.

Mandaviya encouraged farmers to consider using nano urea, nano DAP, and gradually transition to alternative and organic fertilizers, moving away from chemical fertilizers. He called upon farmers to strive for a 20 percent reduction in the use of chemical fertilizers in the upcoming Rabi season, substituting them with eco-friendly alternatives.

The Union Minister drew attention to the adverse effects of excessive chemical use on human health and well-being, underscoring the recently launched PM-PRANAM (PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth) scheme. This initiative aims to reduce chemical fertilizer usage by offering incentives to states to adopt alternative fertilizers.

Mandaviya also issued a stern warning to retail points, urging them not to divert urea and fertilizers intended for agricultural use to non-agricultural industries. He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy against such diversions and assured that stringent actions would be taken against wrongdoers.

During the interaction, farmers from Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand shared their experiences with Pradhan Mantri Kisam Samridhi Kendras. They praised these centers for providing easy access to essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and medicines, which were previously inconvenient to obtain. Farmers also lauded PMKSKs for offering soil and water testing facilities and for fostering a sense of community among farmers, enabling them to share knowledge and experiences.

The virtual session included the presence of Bhagwanth Khuba, MoS (C&F), Rajat Kumar Mishra, Secretary, Deptt of Fertilizers, A Neeraja, Additional Secretary (C&F), and senior officials from the Department of Fertilizers.

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