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- Published: December 11, 2020 16:32
New Delhi: In line with Centre’s resolve to double farmers income, Yogi Adityanath-led UP government has begun preparations to bring drastic change to their lives in the state.
Laying out the blueprint for ‘flourishing’ farm sector in next few years, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to provide vegetable seeds free of cost to over 20 lakh farmers.
Promotion of horticulture, vegetable and fruit farming in Purvanchal region is another priority on government list, as it may turn very effective in doubling income of farmers in this region.
Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi has underlined the need of horticulture in harnessing potential of Purvanchal region.
“In this region, cereals are ready in 6 months while vegetable take 2 to 3 months to reap. Farmers should be made aware of such technology so that they can earn maximum income from horticulture,” the minister said.
“The reason for the backwardness of the farmers is that they do not have updated knowledge of technologies. Diversification and multi-cropping are the demands of the agriculture sector and horticulture can play an important role in this,” the minister added.
Steps taken to enhance horticulture productivity
Underlining state govt’s priorities, the Minister said that ample steps have been taken for overall growth of agriculture sector.
A centre of International Rice Research Centre, Philippines, has been opened in Varanasi. In last 3 years, about Rs 300 crore have been given to Krishi Vigyan Kendra and other agricultural institutions for exploring ‘potential avenues of growth’.
Crop insurance at 5% premium and reduction in mandi fee has been effected.
“In addition, 80% subsidy is being provided on agricultural equipments like sprinklers under the `Per Drop More Crop’ scheme. Such equipments save water and also increase the production of crops,” he said.
2 mango packaging houses have been constructed in Amroha and Varanasi, each costing about 10 crore each. During the corona times, about 2000 Quintal mangos have been exported from this region.
“Dushari mangoes have been the identity of UP and its quality can further be enhanced. By improving the quality of the `Gaurjit’ mangos of Gorakhpur and Basti, its exports can be increased and they could well give a tough competition to Alphaso mangoes,” the minister explained.