By TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th December 2024: Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday underscored the significance of scientific farming as a pathway to achieving self-reliance in food production. His remarks came during the inauguration of the Krishi Swarna Samriddhi Week, Rabi Krishi Vigyan Mela 2024, and the Input Distribution Program in Khowai District.
“The Krishi Swarna Samriddhi Week aims to enrich agriculture and empower farmers to become self-reliant. Through this initiative, we seek to educate farmers on the latest agricultural techniques,” stated Minister Nath.
He emphasized the role of agricultural scientists in supporting farmers with modern farming practices. “Krishi Vigyan Kendra is playing a pivotal role by implementing programs that help farmers adopt advanced technologies and use high-quality seeds. The Kendra supports farmers not only in agriculture but also in animal husbandry, fisheries, and scientific farming. Both the Central and State Governments have launched several initiatives to boost farmers’ income,” he added.
The Minister highlighted the benefits farmers are receiving through programs such as subsidized paddy procurement, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, soil health check-ups, Kisan Credit Cards, and the PM Kisan scheme. “In Khowai district alone, 24,216 farmers have received a total of Rs 73.48 crore through 18 installments under the PM Kisan Yojana,” he informed.
Minister Nath also pointed out Tripura’s growing prominence in rice seed production and its strong agricultural output. “To achieve food self-reliance, scientific farming must be prioritized. Villages are the backbone of the government’s development agenda. Equal progress for the poor, youth, women, and farmers is key to ensuring the state’s overall growth,” he remarked.
He further noted the state’s achievements in agricultural rankings, stating, “Tripura is second in betel nut production, fourth in cauliflower cultivation, fourth in pea cultivation, and second in bean production.”
