Wardha: In a major relief for farmers, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, assured that cotton and soybean would be purchased at prices higher than the minimum support price (MSP) this season.
Fadnavis revealed this during a special event in Wardha, marking the first anniversary of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. It was a long pending demand of farmers cultivating soybean and cotton to get an increased and fair price for their produce.
This move is also considered as a significant step ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The soybean and cotton belt of Maharashtra holds utmost importance for the ruling Mahayuti government ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Addressing the gathering, Fadnavis said that the government had taken significant steps for the welfare of farmers. He had requested the Prime Minister to raise the import duty on crude oil to benefit the prices of soybean and cotton in the domestic market. He noted that the Prime Minister responded promptly, and as a result, soybean prices have already begun to rise. He assured that this season, the government would ensure the purchase of these crops at rates above MSP.
Fadnavis also emphasized the government's decision to provide free electricity to farmers, reaffirming their commitment to improving the agricultural sector. At the event, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the e-bhoomi pujan (digital groundbreaking ceremony) of the PM Mitra Park in Amravati, along with the inauguration of the Acharya Chanakya Skill Development Centre and the Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar Women Startup Scheme. These initiatives, he claimed, would greatly enhance the livelihood opportunities for the people of Maharashtra.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme To Transform 6.5 Lakh Families
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which aims to uplift traditional artisans and small businesses, is expected to benefit over two lakh individuals in the state. Fadnavis declared that these programs would transform the lives of over 6.5 lakh families by creating jobs and fostering empowerment.
Speaking about the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, Fadnavis praised the Prime Minister for supporting marginalized communities. He said that for years, previous governments had neglected traditional artisans like blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, goldsmiths, sculptors, cobblers, barbers, tailors, and washermen. Under the current government, they are receiving proper training and financial aid, helping them improve their livelihoods. The Deputy CM expressed confidence that this would significantly change the lives of these micro OBC communities.