RAJASTHAN-SIKAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a plethora of transformative initiatives, including the 14th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme in Sikar, Rajasthan on Thursday 27 July.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers was filled with enthusiasm as esteemed dignitaries like Union Agriculture Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar and Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilizers, Mansukh Mandaviya, graced the occasion, among others. Both physically and virtually, countless farmers from Rajasthan and across the nation gathered to be part of this momentous occasion.

However, before PM Modi's visit, a tinge of controversy arose when Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed his disappointment, revealing that his planned three-minute speech had been excluded from the event. Not to be deterred, Chief Minister Gehlot conveyed his warm welcome through a heartfelt tweet.

In his address to the enthusiastic audience, PM Modi emphasized that the government has made farmer-centric decisions for nine years, revolutionizing the agricultural landscape with innovative measures from seed to market.

The event witnessed an impressive turnout, with the participation of 732 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), 75 ICAR Institutes, 75 State Agricultural Universities, 600 PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras, 50,000 Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies, and 4 Lakh Common Service Centers (CSCs) from all corners of the country.

The focal points of the event were several key initiatives:

Dedication of 1,25,000 PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSKs) to the nation: These centers will serve farmers by providing essential agri-inputs like fertilizers, seeds, and implements. Additionally, they will facilitate testing facilities, generate awareness about government schemes, and conduct capacity-building programs for retailers at block and district level outlets. Speaking about the initiative, PM Modi revealed that the country's farmers have received a whopping Rs.18,000 crores under the PM Kisan Samriddhi, with the inauguration of 1,25,000 PMKSK centers across the nation.

Release of the 14th instalment of PM-KISAN: This flagship initiative of the Government of India extends crucial financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 per year to eligible farmers through direct benefit transfer. The 14th instalment alone will disburse around Rs. 17,000 crores to over 8.5 crore farmers.

Launch of Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold): An innovative fertilizer that addresses sulphur deficiencies in the soil, optimizes nitrogen use efficiency, and enhances crop quality. PM Modi proudly announced the commencement of Urea Gold.

Launch of 1,600 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) on ONDC: ONDC will empower FPOs with digital marketing, online payments, and facilitate B2B and B2C transactions, fostering local value addition and rural logistics growth. PM Modi underscored that PMKSYs centers at the block and village level will immensely benefit from this initiative.

Inauguration of 5 medical colleges in Rajasthan, laying the foundation stone for 7 more: PM Modi inaugurated 5 medical colleges and laid the foundation stone for 7 additional ones, solidifying the commitment to enhance healthcare infrastructure.

Inauguration of 6 Eklavya Model Residential Schools and One Kendriya Vidyalaya: Furthering the cause of education, PM Modi inaugurated 6 Eklavya Model Residential Schools and a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Tinwari, Jodhpur District, Rajasthan.

Expressing his gratitude for being part of this historic event, PM Modi acknowledged the significance of Shekhawati, the land of brave hearts, as the venue for inaugurating these remarkable developmental projects.

The event marked a moment of transformation, emphasizing the government's dedication to farmers' welfare, education, and healthcare. With visionary initiatives like these, the nation moves towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all.

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