Bhopal, Oct 18 (IANS): Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Saturday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare, describing them as the backbone of the state’s economy and key contributors to its growth.
Addressing the Kisan Aabhar Sammelan at his residence on the occasion of the Bhavantar Scheme payment for soybean, the Chief Minister said that the BJP-led state government is dedicated to strengthening farmers’ financial conditions by enhancing their income through multiple initiatives.
He lauded the Bhavantar Scheme as a major welfare measure that safeguards farmers from market price fluctuations by bridging the gap between the government’s Minimum Support Price (MSP) and actual market rates. “Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Bhavantar Scheme is ensuring fair returns and stability for our farmers,” Yadav said.
Highlighting agriculture’s central role in the state’s economy, the Chief Minister noted that the sector contributes over 39 per cent to Madhya Pradesh’s GDP. He proudly stated that the state now leads the nation in the production of soybean, millets, spices, garlic, and oranges, earning it the title of “Food Basket of India.” Madhya Pradesh also ranks among the top producers of pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables, besides being a leading state in floriculture and medicinal plant cultivation.
Emphasizing the evolving role of farmers as both food and energy providers, Yadav encouraged them to adopt solar energy for agricultural use. He announced a significant policy decision to increase the subsidy on solar power pumps from 40 per cent to 90 per cent. Additionally, farmers using electric pumps will now receive solar pumps of higher capacity—those with 3 HP pumps will get 5 HP, and those with 5 HP will receive 7.5 HP units.
