Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 116th All India Farmers Fair and Agro-Industry Exhibition on Friday at Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Pantnagar. During the event, CM Dhami inspected various stalls and virtually inaugurated the Harela Garden. He also honored progressive farmers from different districts by presenting them with mementoes and certificates.

Expressing his happiness at the event, CM Dhami remarked that the fair is organized by a university renowned for its pioneering role in the Green Revolution in India. He highlighted the significance of such agricultural fairs in advancing the livelihoods of farmers, stating that they facilitate the exchange of modern agricultural technologies and information among scientists, farmers, and entrepreneurs. He noted that the fair provides farmers with access to essential agricultural items, including advanced seeds, saplings, machinery, and organic fertilizers, all in one location.

Describing the annual fair as a "Kumbh of agriculture," Dhami emphasized its importance in educating farmers about modern technologies, which he believes will lead to their prosperity. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, stating that substantial efforts are underway to empower farmers with skills and modern amenities. He pointed out that the government is focusing on increasing agricultural yield through technology while also raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for major crops to enhance farmers' incomes.

Dhami highlighted PM Modi's commitment to farmers, noting that one of his first actions upon taking office was to sign the file for the Kisan Samman Nidhi, which currently benefits over 8 lakh farmers in Uttarakhand. Furthermore, he mentioned that the central government has approved seven new schemes, amounting to approximately ₹14,000 crore, aimed at improving the living standards and income of farmers.

In addition, CM Dhami outlined the state government's ongoing initiatives for farmer welfare, including interest-free loans up to ₹3 lakh, an 80% subsidy for agricultural equipment through the "Farm Machinery Bank" scheme, and bonuses for wheat and sugarcane purchases. He also mentioned that irrigation from canals has been made free for farmers, and efforts are being made to convert tea gardens into organic ones and develop aroma valleys for aromatic farming.

A budget provision of ₹200 crore has been allocated for constructing polyhouses, which will enhance farmers' income and create job opportunities. Additionally, the "Uttarakhand Climate Responsive Rain-Fed Farming Project," approved at a cost of about ₹1,000 crore, aims to promote rain-based farming in hilly areas. The state government has also initiated the Apple and Kiwi Mission to boost production, providing an 80% subsidy for apple orchard plantations.

CM Dhami concluded by affirming that Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology is dedicated to the mission of "Unnat Krishi-Samriddh Kisan," benefiting farmers not only in Uttarakhand but across the country. He expressed confidence that the farmers' fair would significantly contribute to the upliftment of farmers.

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