Haryana Sanctioning Committee Approves ₹1,198.27 Crore Plan to Boost Sustainable Farming and Infrastructure.

The state-level sanctioning committee for the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana, led by Chief Secretary T.V.S.N. Prasad, has approved the annual action plan for the fiscal year 2024-25. The plan allocates ₹1,198.27 crore to boost agricultural productivity, support sustainable farming practices, and improve farmer livelihoods through strategic investments in infrastructure and value addition.

The RKVY Cafeteria scheme will receive ₹995.50 crore, while the Krishonnati Yojana will be allocated ₹203.27 crore.

During the committee meeting, Chief Secretary Prasad emphasized the urgent need for water conservation and the promotion of micro-irrigation initiatives. He highlighted the role of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and the Irrigation Department in advancing large-scale micro-irrigation projects. Prasad proposed adopting a micro-irrigation system on 1,000 acres at the university to serve as a practical demonstration for farmers. The Irrigation and Water Resources Department aims to implement micro-irrigation across 1 lakh acres.

Prasad also stressed the importance of transferring agricultural research from laboratories to practical applications, advocating for demonstration plots that are accessible to farmers. He encouraged the establishment of food and soil testing laboratories by college and university students and called for increased public awareness about testing food products, fruits, and vegetables.

Addressing the issue of pink bollworm infestation in cotton-growing areas, Prasad attributed the problem to agricultural waste and urged CCSHAU to adopt villages and train farmers on pest control. He emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and preventive measures to combat this pest effectively.

ET