Madhya Pradesh government announced a series of major initiatives for farmers during the Balram Krishi Mahotsav, including the transfer of ₹3,308 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 8.27 million farmers under the Mukhyamantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the future of agriculture lies in combining traditional farming wisdom with modern technologies. He urged farmers to conduct regular soil testing and apply fertilizers based on soil health reports to enhance crop productivity. He also advised farmers to reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers, adopt natural and organic farming practices, and embrace crop diversification. According to him, cultivating multiple crops instead of relying on a single crop can improve farm productivity while creating additional sources of income.
The state government reiterated its commitment to farmer welfare, stating that farmers play a crucial role in ensuring the country's food security. Under the combined benefits of the Mukhyamantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), eligible farmers received ₹4,000 directly in their bank accounts as financial assistance.
Highlighting the state's agricultural infrastructure development, the Chief Minister said Madhya Pradesh's irrigated area has expanded to 6.5 million hectares, compared to nearly 4.4 million hectares before 2002-03. More than 1 million hectares have been added to the irrigated area over the past two and a half years. He said the government continues to invest in irrigation, electricity, rural roads, natural farming, and modern agricultural technologies. Farmers are increasingly using drone technology for spraying fertilizers and seeds, making farming operations more efficient.
In a significant announcement, the Chief Minister said that after the current monsoon season, farmers would receive electricity for irrigation during both daytime and nighttime, providing greater flexibility and improving agricultural operations.
Government Targets Higher Milk Production:
State government is also promoting animal husbandry as an additional source of income for farmers. It has set a target to increase Madhya Pradesh's share in milk production from the current 9% to 20%, aiming to strengthen the rural economy and diversify farmers' earnings.
Welfare Measures Extended Beyond Agriculture:
Government also highlighted its continued expansion of social welfare initiatives. Under the Ladli Behna Yojana, eligible women are receiving ₹1,500 every month as financial assistance. The Chief Minister further announced that state-run road transport bus services will be launched from next month, improving transportation facilities for citizens, farmers, and rural communities across Madhya Pradesh.
FAQs:
1. What is the Mukhyamantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana?
It is a Madhya Pradesh government scheme that provides financial assistance to eligible farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
2. How much money was transferred under the scheme?
The government transferred ₹3,308 crore to more than 8.27 million farmers.
3. How much financial assistance do eligible farmers receive?
Eligible farmers receive ₹4,000 through the combined benefits of the Mukhyamantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana and PM-KISAN.
4. What is the new electricity announcement for farmers?
After the current monsoon season, farmers will receive electricity for irrigation during both daytime and nighttime.
5. What is the government's milk production target?
The Madhya Pradesh government aims to increase the state's share in India's milk production from 9% to 20% by promoting animal husbandry.
