Ranchi: State agriculture minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey on Tuesday declared that the government will not compromise on the interests of farmers under any circumstances, even as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated the possibility of below-normal rainfall this year.
Government's Commitment to Farmers
Speaking at the concluding day of the two-day state-level workshop on Kharif at Birsa Agricultural University, Tirkey assured that the government will not only formulate plans but also effectively deliver benefits to the last farmer. She emphasized that ensuring the security of farmers and the timely availability of quality seeds, irrigation facilities, agricultural credit, fertilisers and medicines is the government's top priority.
Contingency Plans for Drought
“Keeping in mind IMD’s prediction due to the El Niño effect, all districts have been directed to prepare a contingency plan for drought. During the workshop, a detailed discussion was held on the draft contingency plans, and a state-level consolidated plan was prepared,” she said. Special emphasis has been placed on increasing farmers' participation up to the panchayat level, time-bound implementation of schemes, and linking Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and self-help groups (SHGs) with the schemes.
Focus on Self-Employment and Allied Activities
The minister added, “This year, priority will be given to beekeeping, lac production, horticulture and agriculture-based self-employment schemes.” The government aims to diversify agricultural activities and promote sustainable livelihoods for farmers across the state.
