What Major Initiatives Did the Agriculture Minister Announce for Uttarakhand?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Discover the significant initiatives announced by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for Uttarakhand, including a Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Programme and a Rs 1700 crore allocation for rural roads, aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape and improving livelihoods for farmers in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Programme to improve sapling quality.
- Rs 1700 crore for rural road infrastructure.
- Direct compensation of Rs 65 crore for crop losses.
- Support for small landholders through integrated farming.
- Focus on women empowerment with the Lakhpati Didi Abhiyan.
Dehradun, December 29 (NationPress) Union Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday underscored the importance of Central assistance and showcased a range of significant initiatives launched for Uttarakhand. These include a Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Programme, a Rs 1700 crore investment for rural road improvements, and over Rs 65 crore in compensation for crop losses.
During a farmers' conference held in Gauchar, in the Chamoli district, which was attended by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, State Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi, local MPs and MLAs, along with thousands of farmers, Chouhan outlined a vision for enhancing the state’s agricultural landscape and rural economy.
A state-of-the-art Clean Plant Centre will be established at ICAR-CITH Mukteshwar to cultivate millions of disease-free saplings of kiwi, apple, malta, and citrus fruits, addressing the persistent issue of substandard planting materials from nurseries. A Centre of Excellence for kiwi cultivation is set to be developed in collaboration with New Zealand, with the goal of positioning Uttarakhand as the horticultural capital of India.
Chouhan also unveiled plans for an integrated farming approach tailored for small landholders, which integrates crops, fruits, vegetables, medicinal and aromatic plants, along with animal husbandry and fisheries. This strategy aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, empowering farmers to leverage the state's unique herbs to significantly boost their income.
A dedicated team of scientists and experts will devise a five-year agricultural roadmap for Uttarakhand, based on discussions with progressive farmers and local stakeholders.
The minister noted that the state already excels in enhancing farmer income and stressed the need to further expedite this progress.
He commended farmers for their diligent work on terraced fields and confirmed that more than Rs 65 crore has been directly credited to the accounts of those impacted by weather-related agricultural losses.
Chouhan referred to the newly launched Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB–G RAM G scheme, calling it a lifeline for rural India. This initiative addresses the shortcomings of MNREGA by ensuring 100-125 days of employment guarantee, providing unemployment allowances, interest on delayed wages, and enhancing transparency through decisions made in Gram Sabha, along with a doubled budget of Rs 1,51,282 crore from the previous Rs 88,000 crore.
Work will be suspended for 60 days during the peak farming season. Additionally, Rs 1700 crore has been allocated for improving rural road connectivity in Uttarakhand, he stated.
Furthermore, Chouhan reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to women's empowerment via the Lakhpati Didi Abhiyan, highlighting that 43,000 women have already reached millionaire status this year.
Point of View
It is clear that the government is making substantial investments in Uttarakhand's agricultural infrastructure. The focus on sustainable practices and support for small landholders reflects a commitment to enhancing rural livelihoods, which is crucial for the state's economic growth. As the nation continues to evolve, initiatives like these are vital for securing a prosperous future for farmers.
NationPress
13/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Programme?
The Rs 100 crore Clean Plant Programme aims to establish a modern Clean Plant Centre to produce disease-free saplings, addressing the issue of low-quality planting materials in nurseries.
How will the Rs 1700 crore fund be utilized?
The Rs 1700 crore allocation will be directed towards enhancing rural road connectivity, facilitating better access for farmers and improving transportation of agricultural products.
What is the significance of the VB–G RAM G scheme?
The VB–G RAM G scheme is designed to provide 100-125 days of guaranteed employment and aims to address shortcomings in the MNREGA, offering various benefits to rural communities.
How many women have benefited from the Lakhpati Didi Abhiyan?
This year, the Lakhpati Didi Abhiyan has enabled 43,000 women to achieve millionaire status, showcasing the government's commitment to women's empowerment.
What agricultural roadmap is being developed for Uttarakhand?
A five-year agricultural roadmap is being prepared with inputs from scientists, experts, and progressive farmers, aiming to enhance agricultural practices and farmer incomes.
