Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to develop one model agriculture and horticulture village in every development block of the state. During a meeting of the Uttarakhand Agricultural Produce Marketing Board held at the Chief Minister’s Camp Office on Thursday, he instructed officials to strengthen the rural economy through local resources, traditional knowledge, and modern technologies.
The Chief Minister said that agricultural and horticultural plans should be prepared according to the geographical conditions, climate, and soil quality of each region. He directed officials to study which crops, fruits, or vegetables can produce better yields in different areas so that agricultural development can be promoted in a planned manner.
He also instructed officials to prepare a detailed three-year action plan to increase farmers’ income, reduce farming costs, and improve agricultural production. The Chief Minister said that farmers’ interests should remain the top priority in all schemes.
The Chief Minister emphasized organizing agricultural seminars and training programs across the state with the cooperation of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology and other institutions. He said that farmers should be provided with modern farming techniques, advanced technology, and high-quality seeds and plants.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister stressed the need to promote oilseed crops such as mustard, sesame, sunflower, and soybean. He said this would strengthen agricultural diversification and provide better economic benefits to farmers.
He also directed officials to promote biogas plants and solar-powered pumps. Along with this, he emphasized providing facilities and training for farmers to sell their produce through digital platforms.
He said that special campaigns should be launched to promote organic farming in the state and more farmers should be connected with the “Lab to Land” program so that the benefits of research and technological innovations can directly reach farmers.
Chairman of the Uttarakhand Mandi Parishad Dr. Anil Kumar Dabbu, Secretary Dr. S.N. Pandey, Additional Secretary Banshidhar Tiwari, and other concerned officials were present in the meeting.
