How is the Govt ensuring farmers receive the respect and support they deserve?
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Synopsis
In a powerful address, Tripura's Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath highlights the government's commitment to honoring farmers and improving their lives. With the implementation of key acts like the PPV & FR Act, the state aims to empower farmers and recognize their vital role in agriculture. Discover the steps being taken to uplift farmers and enhance agricultural diversity.
Key Takeaways
- Government Commitment: The Central and state governments are dedicated to uplifting farmers.
- PPV & FR Act: This act safeguards plant varieties and recognizes farmers' rights.
- Empowering Farmers: Farmers now have rights over their crop varieties.
- Agricultural Growth: Agriculture is crucial for Tripura's economic development.
- Recognition: Farmers are finally receiving the respect they deserve.
Agartala, Dec 4 (NationPress) The Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in Tripura, Ratan Lal Nath, emphasized on Thursday that the unwavering dedication of both the Central and state governments to uplift farmers' living conditions has finally allowed cultivators to gain the acknowledgment they merit.
The Minister made these remarks during a Workshop and Input Distribution Programme focused on the Plant Variety Protection and Farmers' Rights (PPV & FR Act) at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Salema, Dhalai district. He noted that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, farmers have begun to receive the respect they rightfully deserve.
“Even if I desire, obtaining certificates is not feasible; many farmers possess knowledge that surpasses that of scientists. PM Modi has stated that scientists must transition from laboratories to fields, assisting farmers before engaging in research. Farmers are now receiving the respect they deserve. Farmers are annadata. PM Modi has declared that farmers are the true deities. We must serve them,” the Agriculture Minister remarked.
He highlighted that the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act (PPV&FRA) of 2001 is a significant piece of legislation in India that safeguards new plant varieties while also acknowledging farmers' traditional rights.
The Act aims to foster the development of enhanced varieties, safeguard farmers' rights, and maintain agricultural diversity, Nath explained.
He mentioned that the PPV&FRA Authority operates as an autonomous entity under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare in India.
According to the Minister, the core intention of the Act is to ensure that crop varieties are registered under the farmer's name, granting them full rights over those varieties.
The Act seeks to provide protection for innovative and improved crop seeds, recognize farmers' roles in preserving traditional seed varieties, ensure access to quality seeds for farmers, promote research and exploration, and create a framework for the registration and legal protection of crop seeds.
He remarked that previously, no farmer had the opportunity to take the stage.
The Minister also stated that PM Modi has instructed the government to extend all forms of assistance to farmers so they can benefit. With a population of 145 crore in India, 20 crore of which are farmers, and in Tripura, with a population of 42.22 lakh and 4.72 lakh farmers providing food, the Agriculture Minister elaborated.
He stated: “Now, who is the deity? PM Modi consistently emphasizes the development of farmers, women, youth, and the impoverished, and only then can we achieve Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. In our state, farmers are gaining rights over their produce. Agriculture has been pivotal in enhancing the state’s economic growth. Presently, the per-capita income in Tripura is on the rise, a feat accomplished since our government took charge.”
During the event, local MLAs Swapna Das Pal, Manoj Kanti Deb, Chittaranjan Debbarma, Smabhu Lal Chakma, and others were in attendance.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of government efforts in supporting farmers. The initiatives and laws introduced not only aim to enhance agricultural productivity but also to honor the contributions of farmers, who are pivotal to India's economy. This approach aligns with the broader goal of sustainable development and food security.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the PPV & FR Act?
The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act aims to protect new plant varieties and recognize the traditional rights of farmers, promoting the development of improved varieties and preserving agricultural diversity.
How does the government support farmers?
The government provides various forms of assistance, including support for agricultural practices, access to quality seeds, and legal recognition of farmers' rights over their produce.
Who is the current Minister of Agriculture in Tripura?
The current Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in Tripura is Ratan Lal Nath.
Why are farmers referred to as annadata?
Farmers are called annadata because they are the providers of food and play a crucial role in ensuring food security for the nation.
How many farmers are there in Tripura?
In Tripura, there are approximately 4.72 lakh farmers contributing to the state's agricultural output.
