Govt to Aid 1.5 Lakh Farmers with 8,550 Cr for Farm Machinery
The government plans to support 150,000 small farmers with significant funding to access modern farm equipment, aiming to boost agricultural efficiency.
Source: Livemint EconomyThe Indian government has announced a major initiative to help 150,000 small farmers gain access to essential farm machinery. This program involves an allocation of 8,550 crore. The primary goal is to promote farm mechanisation across the country. By providing farmers with modern equipment, the government aims to reduce the practice of stubble burning, which is a significant environmental concern. The initiative will also focus on establishing custom hiring centres, making expensive machinery accessible to small and marginal farmers who cannot afford to buy it individually. This move is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and improve resource efficiency in the farming sector. The government believes that increased mechanisation will lead to better crop yields and more sustainable farming practices.
This initiative is crucial for exam aspirants as it directly relates to government schemes for agriculture and rural development, a key topic in UPSC GS Paper III (Economy) and SSC General Awareness. It highlights government efforts to address environmental issues like stubble burning and improve farmer income. Understanding the financial outlay and the target beneficiaries is important for questions on agricultural policy and sustainable development.
- The government aims to support 150,000 small farmers.
- A total of 8,550 crore has been allocated for farm equipment access.
- The initiative promotes farm mechanisation to reduce stubble burning.
- Custom hiring centres will be established to provide machinery.
- The program seeks to enhance agricultural productivity and resource efficiency.
Farm mechanisation refers to the use of machinery and equipment in agricultural operations to replace manual labour and animal power. This includes tractors, harvesters, seed drills, and other modern tools. It aims to increase efficiency, reduce labour costs, improve timeliness of operations, and enhance overall farm productivity. Mechanisation is crucial for modernizing agriculture and making it more sustainable.
Stubble burning is the practice of intentionally setting fire to the straw stubble and other plant residue that remains in the fields after harvesting crops like paddy. This is done to clear the fields quickly for the next planting season. However, it causes severe air pollution, reduces soil fertility, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. It is a major environmental issue, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana.
Custom Hiring Centres are facilities that provide agricultural machinery and equipment on rent to farmers, especially small and marginal farmers who cannot afford to purchase such equipment. These centres help in promoting farm mechanisation by making advanced tools accessible and affordable. They play a vital role in improving agricultural productivity and reducing the burden on individual farmers.
Exams frequently ask about government schemes related to agriculture, farmer welfare, and environmental protection. Focus on the financial outlay, target beneficiaries, and the specific problems (like stubble burning) that the scheme aims to solve.
Remember '8.5K for 1.5L' 8,550 crore for 1.5 lakh farmers to fight stubble burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the government's farm machinery initiative?
The main objective of the government's farm machinery initiative is to support 150,000 small farmers by providing access to modern farm equipment. This aims to promote mechanisation, reduce stubble burning, and enhance agricultural productivity and resource efficiency in the farming sector.
How much funding has been allocated for farm equipment access?
A significant allocation of 8,550 crore has been made by the government for farm equipment access under this initiative. This funding will help small farmers acquire or rent necessary machinery to improve their farming practices.
How will custom hiring centres help farmers?
Custom hiring centres (CHCs) will help farmers by making expensive agricultural machinery and equipment available on rent. This allows small and marginal farmers, who cannot afford to buy such equipment, to use modern tools, thereby promoting mechanisation and improving their farming efficiency and output.