The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Horticulture, and Food Processing has embarked on a comprehensive study tour covering Srinagar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, and Shimla. The initiative aims to gain first-hand insights into the agricultural landscape, challenges faced by farmers, and innovative practices in these regions.
Focus on Regional Agricultural Issues
During the tour, committee members will interact with local farmers, agricultural scientists, and officials to understand region-specific issues. In Srinagar, the focus will be on horticulture and the impact of climate change on apple and saffron cultivation. Ludhiana's visit will center on crop diversification and the overuse of groundwater in Punjab. Chandigarh will host discussions on policy implementation, while Shimla will address challenges in hill agriculture and organic farming.
Key Objectives of the Study Tour
- Assess Crop Diversification: Evaluate efforts to shift from traditional crops like paddy to pulses and oilseeds in Punjab.
- Climate Resilience: Study adaptation strategies for horticulture in Jammu and Kashmir amid changing weather patterns.
- Organic Farming: Review the promotion of organic agriculture in Himachal Pradesh and its market potential.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Identify deficiencies in cold storage, supply chains, and market access.
Expected Outcomes
The committee is expected to compile a detailed report with recommendations for the central government. Key areas include improving irrigation efficiency, enhancing credit access for small farmers, and strengthening research in climate-resilient crops. The tour underscores the panel's commitment to evidence-based policymaking to address the agrarian crisis.
The study tour will conclude with a feedback session in Shimla, where members will synthesize their observations. The report is anticipated to influence the upcoming Union Budget allocations for agriculture.
