Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s recent address underscored farmers as the backbone of India’s development. His remarks serve as a timely reminder of the economic and political strength farmers possess and the need for them to harness these strengths to shape their own destinies. Agriculture has long been the lifeline of India, sustaining a large segment of the population and contributing significantly to the national economy. However, despite their indispensable role, farmers often find themselves struggling with economic uncertainty. Dhankhar’s statement that “when the economic situation of farmers improves, the country’s situation improves” highlights an undeniable reality. The prosperity of the agricultural sector directly impacts the nation’s overall economic well-being. One of the key takeaways from the Vice-President’s speech is the call for farmers to leverage Agricultural Science Centres to stay informed about modern techniques and Government policies. With over 730 such centres across India, they present a golden opportunity for farmers to embrace innovation. Technology and scientific advancements can help improve crop yields, enhance soil health, and increase productivity, ultimately resulting in higher incomes.
Emphasis should be on the importance of value addition in agriculture. The food processing industry, for instance, has immense potential to boost farmers’ earnings. Instead of merely selling raw produce, farmers should explore ways to process and market their products. Flour mills, oil mills, and dairy expansion are areas where farmers can integrate themselves into the broader economic framework. Encouraging the younger generation to participate in agricultural trade and entrepreneurship will not only modernise the sector but also make it a lucrative career choice. Moreover, cooperatives and farmer-producer organisations can play a transformative role in ensuring better bargaining power for farmers. By uniting under cooperatives, farmers can secure fair prices, reduce dependence on intermediaries, and enhance their financial stability. As India progresses towards becoming a global economic powerhouse, the agricultural sector must not be left behind. Policy initiatives that focus on providing better credit facilities, infrastructural support, and market access should be prioritised. Farmers must adopt a proactive approach, leveraging technology, forming cooperatives, and venturing into agribusiness.
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