Centre, States Urged to Work Together for Farmers’ Welfare

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the national government and state governments should work together to help farmers.

He made the comments at a meeting of agriculture ministers from southern states in Hyderabad.

He said more farmers should receive Kisan Credit Cards so they can get loans at affordable interest rates.

Farmers who receive benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme could be given cards first.

Chouhan said each state should make an agriculture plan suited to its weather and land.

He also said officials should prepare for the effects of El Nino, which can affect different districts differently.

The government wants farmers to grow crops that use less water and have better access to seeds.

It also wants higher production, lower farming costs, fair prices, crop insurance and improved soil health.

Chouhan urged states to protect farmers from poor-quality seeds and pesticides.