October 5, 2024 – Washim, Maharashtra
Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced several initiatives in Maharashtra today, aiming to boost agriculture and animal husbandry with projects worth approximately Rs 23,300 crore. These efforts include financial support for farmers, new technologies for cattle breeding, and solar power projects.
PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi: PM Modi disbursed the 18th installment of the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi scheme, providing around Rs 20,000 crore to 9.4 crore farmers across India. This scheme supports small and marginal farmers by giving them financial assistance to improve their livelihoods.
NaMo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi: In Maharashtra, the Prime Minister launched the 5th installment of the NaMo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana, providing Rs 2,000 crore to benefit approximately 90 lakh farmers.
Agriculture Infrastructure Fund: Over 7,500 projects under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) were dedicated to the nation, worth Rs 1,920 crore. These projects include cold storage units, warehouses, and processing centers to improve the storage and management of agricultural products.
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): PM Modi also launched 9,200 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), with a combined turnover of Rs 1,300 crore. FPOs allow farmers to work together, helping them get better prices and support.
Cattle Breeding Technology: The Prime Minister introduced new technologies for animal breeding, including a Unified Genomic Chip for cattle and indigenous sex-sorted semen technology. These advancements will help farmers by improving cattle breeding at lower costs.
Solar Power Projects: Five new solar parks were inaugurated, with a total capacity of 19 MW, under the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana – 2.0. These solar parks will provide clean and affordable energy to support agriculture.
Banjara Heritage Museum: PM Modi inaugurated the Banjara Virasat Museum in Poharadevi, celebrating the rich culture and history of the Banjara community, which has contributed greatly to India's social and spiritual life.
The Prime Minister emphasized his government's commitment to supporting farmers, boosting rural development, and preserving cultural heritage. He also called for unity in the fight against challenges like drug addiction, while expressing confidence in building a prosperous India with strong contributions from Maharashtra.
These new initiatives are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen India's agricultural sector and support the livelihoods of farmers across the country.