Make efforts in mission mode for PM KUSUM Yojana to benefit as many farmers as possible: CM Yogi

During a significant meeting on Friday, he highlighted that between 2017-18 and 2022-23, over 51,000 farmers have received solar pumps through the PM KUSUM Scheme. This not only reduces costs for farmers but also contributes to a reduction in carbon emissions amidst climate change concerns. In such a situation, there should be concerted efforts in mission mode to ensure that the maximum number of farmers avail the benefits of this scheme.

The Chief Minister said that the target is to connect 30,000 farmers with solar pump facilities in the financial year 2023-24, followed by 44,250 farmers in 2024-25.

"Efforts should be intensified in this regard. Given the widespread popularity of this scheme, which is being run with the support of the Government of India, the state government is considering increasing its grant in proportion to the cost. This measure aims to ensure that a greater number of farmers can benefit from the PM KUSUM scheme," he added.

During the review of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, the Chief Minister emphasised the involvement of Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs) in establishing and operating warehouses at both the Gram Panchayat and block levels.

Similarly, testing labs for organic products can be established in polyhouses, pack houses, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

The Chief Minister directed the Agriculture Department to prepare a detailed action plan in this regard in coordination with the Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries Department.

To ensure the protection of crops from stray and wild animals, the Chief Minister has emphasized the need to motivate farmers to adopt solar fencing.

During the Agriculture Department review, the Chief Minister highlighted the frequent crop damage faced by farmers due to stray or destitute animals. To provide a lasting solution, he stressed the importance of motivating farmers to adopt solar fencing.

He further added that the Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana should be implemented in a phased manner.

In the first phase, the Forest Department and Agriculture Department should jointly survey and assess the agricultural land adjacent to the forest area. After that, solar fencing should be done there. Subsequently, solar fencing initiatives should be extended to agricultural land along riverbanks, he said.

The Chief Minister has given instructions to prepare a detailed action plan for this. Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi and Minister of State Baldev Singh Aulakh were present during the meeting. (ANI)