Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently announced that the state is gearing up for a promising monsoon season this year. According to the CM, the government has set an ambitious target of 204 lakh metric tonnes (MT) for Kharif crop production. This target surpasses last year’s production of 187 lakh tonnes.
During a press conference following a review meeting on Kharif season preparations, CM Fadnavis reassured farmers that there will be an ample supply of genuine seeds, fertilizers, and crop loans to support their agricultural activities. He emphasized that the state is anticipating more rainfall than usual this year, which bodes well for agricultural productivity.
To ensure the availability of quality seeds, Fadnavis encouraged farmers to utilize the central government’s SAATHI portal for seed procurement. He also warned suppliers against pressuring farmers to purchase unnecessary fertilizers along with seeds, stating that such practices would result in legal action under the Essential Commodities Act.
In an effort to keep farmers informed about technological advancements in agriculture, digital workshops will be conducted at the taluka level. Additionally, the Agriculture department has introduced an Artificial Intelligence-powered app called ‘Mahavistar’ to provide real-time updates to farmers.
Fadnavis shared his government’s commitment to boosting investments in the agriculture sector by Rs 5,000 crore annually. He highlighted the importance of climate change awareness and early warning systems to help farmers make informed decisions about their crops.
During the review meeting, district collectors were instructed to facilitate easy access to credit for farmers without insisting on CIBIL scores. Fadnavis expressed concerns about the impact of loan denials on the economy and farmer suicides, urging banks to prioritize agricultural lending without stringent credit checks.
In a separate directive to banks, Fadnavis emphasized the need to disburse agricultural loans without reliance on CIBIL scores. He warned that banks continuing to enforce credit score requirements would face consequences, as mandated by the Reserve Bank of India.
Overall, Maharashtra is gearing up for a productive Kharif season with a focus on supporting farmers and ensuring a successful harvest. The government’s initiatives aim to empower farmers with the resources they need to thrive in the agricultural sector.
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