Mumbai, Nov 7 (NationPress) Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, every rupee of compensation due to farmers will be disbursed, asserted Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday.

If necessary, "we will engage with farmers directly to guarantee that every single rupee of their rightful claim is delivered to them,” the minister stated while addressing a gathering of 20,000 farmers at the Global Vikas Trust (GVT) Krishikul in Sirsala, located in Maharashtra's Beed district.

"A farmer is not just a cultivator but a vital contributor to life — the ‘Annadaata’ of our nation. For the first time in India, under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, scientists from across the country have left their labs and come directly to the fields, interacting with farmers to ensure that agricultural research and innovation benefits reach the grassroots,” he added.

Chouhan also had a direct interaction with farmers, where they shared their experiences and discussed the positive transformations in their lives due to the adoption of new agricultural innovations.

Farmers informed the minister about their advancements in silk farming, natural farming methods, and water conservation efforts.

"The ultimate aim of all our initiatives is to boost farmers’ income. No farmer brother or sister should ever be driven to the tragic decision of suicide," Chouhan expressed.

He highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central government is dedicated to ensuring that all farmers have access to high-quality seeds.

Discussing the recent unpredictable weather patterns, he noted that excessive rainfall this year had caused significant crop damage in various regions, impacting the livelihoods and futures of farmers and their families.

"Nonetheless, both the Central and State governments are fully alert and committed to providing timely assistance to every affected farmer," he assured.

Chouhan declared that the state government would offer immediate compensation to farmers for crop losses, along with additional financial support through the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).

The minister also stressed the importance of integrated farming systems, merging agriculture with allied sectors like beekeeping, fisheries, and animal husbandry. "Given the small size of landholdings, these allied sectors can greatly enhance farmers’ income," he noted.

He further cautioned that strict action would be taken against the production of counterfeit fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides, emphasizing the government's serious stance on the issue. "A new Bill targeting those involved in the production and sale of fake fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides will be introduced in the upcoming Budget Session," he added.