Is Enhancing Farmers' Incomes a Priority in Haryana's Budget?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Focus on enhancing farmers' incomes.
- Prioritization of agriculture in the government budget.
- Engagement with agricultural scientists and farmers.
- Introduction of measures against spurious seeds.
- Expansion of Horticulture Mission across Haryana.
Chandigarh, Jan 15 (NationPress) In a bid to propel comprehensive agricultural development in Haryana, boost farmers' earnings, and fortify agriculture along with allied sectors, a pre-budget consultation meeting took place on Thursday in Hisar.
The assembly, overseen by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, gathered agricultural scientists, forward-thinking farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and representatives from animal husbandry, horticulture, fisheries, and the rural economy to gather feedback for the 2026-27 Budget.
During his address, the Chief Minister asserted that the government is crafting policies centered around the needs and challenges of farmers, ensuring that agriculture remains the utmost priority in the budget. He highlighted agriculture's crucial role in sustaining the nation’s economy.
“The authentic India thrives in villages, and Haryana’s identity is fundamentally intertwined with diligent farmers and a robust rural economy. Hence, agriculture and its associated sectors will receive dedicated attention in the upcoming budget,” he noted.
CM Saini expressed that this consultation holds personal significance for him, as he hails from a farming background and recognizes the challenges faced by those in agriculture. He stressed that farmers are not just producers of food but also the guardians of India’s culture, traditions, and heritage.
Reflecting on the previous pre-budget meeting on January 9, the Chief Minister mentioned that 161 proposals were received from farmers and experts, with 99 essential suggestions incorporated into the budget.
He emphasized the enactment of stringent legislation to curb the sale of counterfeit seeds.
A dedicated agriculture and horticulture action plan was devised for the Morni area, initiatives to promote natural farming were enhanced, and financial support under the Mera Pani, Meri Virasat scheme was increased to encourage water conservation and crop diversification.
In alignment with farmers' recommendations, the government has initiated modernization of all mandis, introduced a gate-pass system for all crops, established seed testing laboratories in each district, launched new centers of excellence, and expanded the Horticulture Mission throughout the state.