Addressing the concerns raised by Kashmir farmers, the government set to procure Kashmir farmers produce through National Bank for Agricultural and Rural Development (NABARD). This move would aid in acquiring farm harvest like saffron, peaches, and walnuts from cultivators. In addition, it would cut down middlemen and farmers will get the right price for their produce. Finance Minister confirmed to extend their support for farmers in Kashmir for the next harvest season of the stated crops.
Government’s Plan
The center is striving to guarantee an improved price to the farmers to the newly formed union territories. It was brought to notice that the government initiated several plans to endorse fiscal insertion, providing insurance and funding when necessary. Most importantly, it strived for the availability of banking services around 5km of each village.
Similarly, it plans to promote solar energy generation in Ladakh. Recently, the government acquired apples from Jammu and Kashmir through the Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED).
NABARD’s Responsibilities
Harsh Kumar, NABARD’s chairman agreed to fulfill the responsibilities designated by the administration. Further, he mentioned that NABARD shall take an initiative to understand the plight of the cultivators by interacting with them. Besides the procurement, he emphasized will work on short and long-term credit basis with farmers.
Accomplishing Several Beneficial Plans
The involvement of NABARD has certainly lessened the burden faced by the farmers by subsequently reducing prices. However, the main agenda of its involvement is the timely procurement. Agricultural produce is time bound and timely procurement will secure farmers income.
The government is encouraging investments in Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, NABARD aims to build rural infrastructure by increasing the Rs 400 crore allotment.
The goal is to set up over 10,000 cultivator organizations in a period of five years to assist small and marginal farmers. Further, this would assist in selling the produce at a better value price.