Are Farmers Really the Backbone of Madhya Pradesh's Economy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Farmers are essential to Madhya Pradesh's economy.
- The Bhavantar Scheme offers financial security to farmers.
- Subsidies for solar pumps are now as high as 90%.
- Madhya Pradesh is a leader in agricultural production.
- Farmers are transitioning to energy providers.
Bhopal, Oct 18 (NationPress) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated on Saturday that farmers form the backbone of the state’s economy, and their welfare is the utmost priority for the state government.
He emphasized that the BJP-led government is dedicated to improving the financial status of farmers by enhancing their income via all feasible means.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while speaking at the Kisan Aabhar Sammelan held at his residence, coinciding with the disbursement under the Bhavantar Scheme for soybean.
He highlighted that the Bhavantar Scheme shields farmers from market price volatility and stands as a significant initiative for their benefit.
"With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Bhavantar Scheme is aiding farmers by narrowing the gap between market prices and the government’s minimum support price (MSP)," he mentioned.
During his speech, the Chief Minister acknowledged the farmers' contributions, noting that agriculture constitutes over 39 percent of the state’s GDP.
He pointed out that Madhya Pradesh ranks among the top states in the production of foodgrains, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables, and holds the leading position in oranges, spices, garlic, ginger, and coriander production.
The state stands second in producing peas, onions, chillies, and guavas, and third in floriculture and medicinal plants.
Madhya Pradesh has now achieved the leading status in the production of soybean, millets, spices, garlic, and orange, earning the title of the "Food Basket of India".
"Farmers, who are now evolving into energy providers alongside food suppliers, are encouraged to install solar pumps in their fields. The adoption of solar pumps will relieve them from the ongoing expenses of temporary electricity connections," the Chief Minister remarked.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Yadav announced that farmers will now be eligible for a 90 percent subsidy for solar power pump installations, up from the previous 40 percent.
Additionally, farmers utilizing electric pumps will receive solar pumps of a higher capacity; a 3 HP farmer will obtain a 5 HP pump, while a 5 HP farmer will receive a 7.5 HP pump.