Agartala: Dec 26: The state government is working towards doubling the income of farmers. Since the change of government in 2018, several initiatives have been taken to improve the welfare of farmers. One of these measures is the purchase of paddy at a support price from farmers. This was stated by MLA and Minister Shuklacharan Noatia during the official paddy procurement event at Jolaibari today.
The event was attended by South Tripura Zilla Parishad Chairperson Deepak Dutta, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Shantir Bazar K.C. Gupta, Supervisor of Jolaibari Agriculture Department Sridam Das, Chairperson of Jolaibari Block Panchayat Samiti Tapas Dutta, prominent social worker Sujit Dutta, and others.
The minister highlighted that the current state government is focused on doubling farmers’ income. He pointed out that during the Left Front rule, farmers did not receive any assistance. Instead, they were subjected to compulsory collections under various funds and were forced to participate in movements organized by the Left. However, after the change of government, the new administration has been working diligently for the betterment of farmers.
In addition, the government has introduced the Krishak Samman Nidhi scheme for farmers, which includes the distribution of free seeds and fertilizers. Furthermore, the government is purchasing farmers’ produce at support prices, and a variety of agricultural machinery is being distributed to aid in farming.
The minister also acknowledged the severe impact of the devastating floods in August, which caused significant losses to farmers. Despite the setbacks, the relentless efforts of Sridam Das, the Supervisor of the Agriculture Department, helped farmers successfully grow paddy again. The paddy procurement process will continue until January 3rd, with paddy being purchased at a rate of 23 rupees per kilogram.
