Gandhinagar, Feb 16 (NationPress) Gujarat's Governor Acharya Devvrat revealed on Monday that over Rs 22,000 crore has been directly transferred to the accounts of more than 6.9 million farmer families through the Prime Minister Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) initiative.

During his address at the eighth session of the 15th Gujarat Legislative Assembly, the Governor reaffirmed the state government's dedication to inclusive growth under the vision of 'Developed Gujarat to Developed India'.

Governor Devvrat stated, “This year, the state has provided timely financial aid to farmers impacted by unseasonal rainfall, unveiling a relief package worth Rs 9,610 crore, benefiting over 3.3 million farmers. Encouraging natural farming practices is a significant focus, with the establishment of the Gujarat Natural Farming Development Board and the world's first Natural Farming University within the state.”

“Over 1.9 million farmers have received training, with more than 800,000 adopting natural farming techniques.”

“The state has established 7,100 model farms, and the Dang district has been declared entirely chemical-free. Farmers are encouraged and incentivized to embrace chemical-free methods,” added Governor Devvrat.

Additionally, the Governor showcased Gujarat's achievements in horticulture, highlighting global acclaim for products like Gir Kesar mangoes, Valsad Hafus, Kachchi Kharek, and Amalsadi chikoo.

He emphasized that direct financial support initiatives, such as PM-KISAN, ensure that timely assistance reaches farmers, thereby enhancing agricultural resilience and livelihoods.

On governance, the Governor pointed out technology-driven efforts that promote transparency and accountability.

“The Chief Minister Dashboard and Governance Performance Index (GPI) have been enacted, while land-related services are now fully online via the Integrated Online Revenue Applications (I-ORA) portal and GARVI-2.0. Administrative decentralization has also resulted in the creation of new districts and talukas, enabling efficient delivery of government services to rural and remote regions,” he noted.

Cultural and heritage initiatives were also underscored.

The Governor mentioned the 'Somanath Swabhiman Festival', commemorating a thousand years since the assault on the Somnath temple, celebrating the state's cultural heritage under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance.

“The 'Unity March – Sardar @150' celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda, symbolizing unity and national pride. The Year of Tribal Pride will be celebrated in 2025, featuring national-level events and a tribal pride chariot procession in Dediapada of Narmada district,” stated Governor Devvrat.

The session was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, ministers, and assembly members.

Earlier, the Gujarat Assembly also honored late former members, including former ministers Mansukh Joshi and Mohammad Gulammohiyuddin Surti, along with former MLAs Dhirajlal Ribadiya, Amarsinh Vasava, Vajubhai Dodia, and Bavanji Metaliya.

A moment of silence was observed in their memory, and condolences were extended to their families.