During a recent speech in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the administration's commitment to helping farmers expand their crop varieties. He stressed the significance of collectively striving towards the goal of showcasing Indian food products on dining tables worldwide.
Modi underscored the government's efforts to assist and motivate farmers in revitalizing the agricultural sector, urging a shift towards natural farming methods and the cultivation of millets. He highlighted the success of large-scale natural farming initiatives along the Ganges riverbanks in Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing their dual benefits of supporting farmers while preserving the purity of sacred rivers.
Encouraging Entrepreneurship
Addressing food processing entrepreneurs, Modi advocated for the adoption of the "zero effect, zero defect" mantra in their ventures. He showcased success stories such as Siddharth Nagar’s kalanamak rice and Chandauli’s black rice, now being exported significantly. The PM urged collaborative efforts to introduce Indian food items to global markets, encouraging partnerships between entrepreneurs and farmers.
Further, he reiterated the government's commitment to empowering small-scale farmers through initiatives like farmer-producer organizations and cooperative societies, promoting mutually beneficial partnerships. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between agricultural development and business prosperity, urging investors to recognize the potential benefits of supporting the agricultural sector.
Uttar Pradesh's Role in Economic Growth
Highlighting Uttar Pradesh's pivotal role in driving India's rural and agriculture-based economy, the PM called upon stakeholders to maximize the state's potential. He expressed confidence in the capabilities of Uttar Pradesh's people and the efforts of the state government in fostering progress.
Investment Initiatives
During the event, Modi launched 14,000 projects worth over Rs 10 lakh crore, spanning various sectors including manufacturing, renewable energy, food processing, housing, hospitality, entertainment, and education. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and representatives of top global and Indian companies.
The PM's remarks on agriculture and rural economy coincided with ongoing protests by a section of farmers, primarily from Punjab. These farmers, demanding a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) among other grievances, have been staging demonstrations at the Punjab-Haryana border since February 13 as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' march.
As the government pledges continued support for agricultural innovation and rural development, it faces the challenge of addressing the concerns of protesting farmers.
