Haryana Minister Arvind Sharma Engages in Wheat Harvesting with Farmers in Sonipat
During the peak wheat harvesting season across Haryana, state cooperation minister Dr Arvind Sharma showcased a hands-on approach by joining farmers in the fields of Bidhla village, Sonipat district, on Sunday. Accompanied by his wife, Dr Rita Sharma, the minister embraced a rustic avatar, participating in traditional 'lamani' or manual wheat harvesting, offering a rare glimpse of political leadership directly engaging with agricultural work.
Spontaneous Stop to Assess Crop Conditions
Dr Sharma was returning to Gohana from Salarpur Majra village after attending events under the BJP's 'Gaon Chalo, Basti Chalo' campaign when he decided to halt near Bidhla. His aim was to evaluate the impact of recent storms and unseasonal rains on standing crops, which have been a concern for farmers in the region.
The minister's convoy stopped near the Rajbaha canal at fields owned by a local farmer named Ajit. Dr Sharma interacted with Ajit's wife, Mamta, and women laborers who were actively harvesting wheat, inquiring about crop conditions and the challenges they faced due to adverse weather.
Hands-On Participation in Harvesting
During the interaction, Dr Sharma spontaneously picked up a sickle, tied a traditional 'mandasa' cloth headgear, and entered the field alongside his wife. The couple spent considerable time harvesting wheat and bundling the crop into sheaves, demonstrating a personal connection to farming activities.
Later, they shared a meal prepared by Mamta, expressing gratitude to the host family for their hospitality. This gesture underscored the minister's commitment to grassroots engagement and understanding of rural life.
Recalling Farming Roots and Government Support
In a video message, Dr Sharma recalled his childhood experiences working in fields with his father, a retired school principal. He stated, "Whenever I get the opportunity, I reconnect with farming. Today brought back old memories. My wife also experienced 'lamani' for the first time and found it fulfilling."
He emphasized his passion for agriculture, saying, "It's about passion — love for the soil, love for the fields, love for Haryana. Once you step into the field, the connection is immediate."
The minister highlighted the government's dedication to farmers, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini come from farming backgrounds and understand cultivators' concerns. He assured that wheat procurement has commenced across the state, with efforts to ensure a smooth process for farmers and commission agents.
Dr Sharma reiterated the government's commitment to procuring every grain of farmers' produce at the minimum support price (MSP), providing financial security during the harvest season.
Local Presence and Broader Context
Several local residents, including former Bidhla sarpanch Kartar Malik, were present during the event, witnessing the minister's engagement firsthand. This visit aligns with ongoing agricultural activities in Haryana, where wheat harvesting is a critical economic activity, and government support is pivotal for farmer welfare.
