The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) convened a pivotal two-day regional conference on November 18th and 19th, 2024, to evaluate the midterm progress of agricultural schemes across Southern States and Union Territories. Key officials, including Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of DA&FW, and representatives from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, and Puducherry, participated in this review aimed at fostering equitable agricultural growth and addressing region-specific challenges.
This conference, part of a series initiated by the Government of India, underscores the Centre’s commitment to enhancing agricultural infrastructure, streamlining scheme execution, and ensuring farmers’ welfare through collaborative efforts with states.
Highlights of the Conference
1. Midterm Review and State Collaboration
Dr. Chaturvedi urged states to maximize the benefits of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) by addressing delays in fund allocation, ensuring timely submission of Utilization Certificates (UCs), and operationalizing Single Nodal Accounts (SNA-SPARSH).
2. Key Scheme Updates
The progress of flagship programs like the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY), Krishonnati Yojana (KY), and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was reviewed. States were advised to finalize their FY 2025-26 action plans by December to secure timely fund disbursements and avoid past delays.
3. Focus on Digital Agriculture and Farmer Registration
The conference emphasized leveraging the Digital Agriculture Mission to advance data-driven practices and streamline operations under PM-KISAN. States were urged to align land records with the Agristack database and prioritize a comprehensive farmer registry, deemed critical for ensuring targeted benefits under Central and State schemes.
4. Specialized Topics Discussed
Key focus areas included:
- National Edible Oils Mission
- NABL accreditation for agricultural laboratories
- Promoting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Efficient use of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
- Natural Farming practices
- Innovative approaches like Agri Drone Spraying Technology and Namo Drone Didi
5. Insights from Andhra Pradesh
Vijay Kumar, Advisor to the Andhra Pradesh government, presented the state’s initiatives to promote natural farming. On November 19th, delegates visited local natural farming fields, interacted with experienced practitioners, and observed demonstrations of jeevamrutham preparation and Agri Drone operations.
Open House Discussions
The conference concluded with an open house session, providing a platform for stakeholders to address challenges such as intercropping, soil health, organic farming, micro-irrigation, and quality seed production. Innovative solutions to improve sampling systems and tenure farming were also explored.
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Outcome and Future Directions
The Secretary reaffirmed the Centre’s partnership with states in advancing the agricultural sector. He emphasized the importance of addressing region-specific needs and highlighted the correlation between timely fund utilization and increased future allocations.
By fostering collaboration and encouraging innovation, the conference marked a significant step toward achieving sustainable agricultural development across Southern India.
