Union Cabinet Allocates Over Rs 14,000 Crore for Enhancing Farmers' Lives

The Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved seven schemes totaling Rs 14,235.30 crore to boost farmers' livelihoods and incomes. Key programs include the Digital Agriculture Mission, Crop Science for Food and Nutritional Security, and initiatives for livestock, horticulture, and agricultural education and research.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned seven schemes with a total outlay of Rs 14,235.30 crore aimed at improving farmers' livelihoods and increasing their incomes.

Significantly, the Digital Agriculture Mission will leverage technology to better the lives of farmers. With an allocation of Rs 2,817 crore, the mission will implement initiatives such as the Agri Stack, Farmers Registry, Village Land Maps Registry, and the Krishi Decision Support System. This system will aid in geospatial data analysis, drought and flood monitoring, weather forecasts, groundwater data, and crop yield modeling. The mission will also facilitate digital crop estimation, soil profiling, and connectivity for crop loans.

Another vital initiative, the Crop Science for Food and Nutritional Security, has been allocated Rs 3,979 crore. This program aims to prepare farmers for climate resilience and secure food supplies by 2047, focusing on agricultural research, plant genetic improvements, and crop enhancement.

The cabinet has also allocated Rs 2,291 crore to strengthen Agricultural Education, Management, and Social Sciences, emphasizing modern agricultural research and education aligned with the New Education Policy 2020. Additionally, Rs 1,702 crore will go towards Sustainable Livestock Health and Production to boost farmers' incomes from livestock and dairy.

The Sustainable Development of Horticulture will receive Rs 1129.30 crore, targeting income increases from horticulture crops. The Ministry also announced a Rs 1,202 crore outlay for strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Rs 1,115 crore for Natural Resource Management.

(With inputs from agencies.)