Shillong, Jan 5: Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar today inaugurated the administrative-cum-academic block office of the College of Agriculture at Kyrdemkulai, Meghalaya. He also ceremoniously inaugurated the Girls’ Hostel of the College.
“Northeast is of utmost importance. It is home to different cultures. It is rich in natural resources and is blessed with good climate. Northeast is the heaven of our country and Meghalaya’s geographical scenario is such that we can develop it if we try with all our efforts”, said the Union Minister while addressing the North East Krishi Kumbha – 2023 and 49th Foundation Day later in the day at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam.
Tomar expressed delight in the fact that agriculture has become a priority. “With new age, there is a need to adapt to new technologies. Ensuring these technologies reach every Farmer in India, in Meghalaya and help raise the income is the need of the hour,” he said.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, every segment of the agriculture domain has been looked after. Initiatives such as PM-Kisan, Fasal Bima Yojana, promotion of digital agriculture, infrastructure development fund in agriculture sector as well as providing easy loans to Farmers across the country have been facilitated under his leadership,” stated the Union Minister while stressing on the Government’s efforts to improve the sector.
The minister said that farmers, farming should always be treated with honour. “A farmer not only supports his family but also contributes to the agricultural economy of the country and our government’s priority has always been to ensure prosperity of farmers and development of agriculture”, the minister added. The Minister, while asserting that India is now not only a food producing nation but also an exporter, stressed on the quality of production in addition to increasing the produce.
Earlier the Minister also stressed on the importance of Agri-startups and that the College of Agriculture under the Agriculture University, Imphal would play a major role in framing modern agricultural methods for increased productivity.
“I am happy that Northeast is home to organic farming. In the past days, the maximum share of Agricultural exports of organic products has been from the Northeast Region,” he said. The Minister added that Northeast, despite its challenges, can utilize its resources and contribute in livelihood generation, natural farming and much more.