Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the formidable potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth, stating that the recent introduction of train services from the Valley has markedly accelerated trade movement. This statement came during an interaction with progressive farmers from across the nation in New Delhi, coinciding with the launch of the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, a new ₹24,000 crore initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting sustainable farming in 100 selected districts.
Among the farmers present was Fayaz Ahmad Ganaie from Ganderbal district. He shared his inspiring journey, stating, “I’ve come from Kashmir. I saw your progressive schemes for farmers and availed their benefits. Today, I have 14 employees and earn around ₹15 lakh in profits annually.” His success story exemplified the tangible benefits of government initiatives under Prime Minister Modi.
Responding to Ganaie’s success, PM Modi remarked, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have immense strength. Now with the train services, goods have been moving fast from the Kashmir valley.” This assertion reinforces the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region.
The launch of direct goods train services from New Delhi to Kashmir marks a significant development in logistics. For the first time, this service facilitates the transport of vehicles, apples, and other fruits directly to and from Srinagar, dramatically enhancing the valley’s trade capabilities.
During the event, Prime Minister Modi urged farmers to gradually transition towards natural farming practices. He encouraged experimentation on small plots of land to instill confidence and motivate positive outcomes. Many farmers shared their transformative experiences following previous interactions with the Prime Minister.
A female farmer expressed gratitude for the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, describing the annual ₹6,000 support as a critical aid that allowed her to purchase seeds and prepare her fields timely. Innovative agricultural practices also emerged, with farmers showcasing aeroponically grown “Jain potato” and value-added garlic products like paste and powder, illustrating the region’s agricultural diversity.
Highlighting India’s agricultural achievements, PM Modi provided impressive statistics, stating that over the past eleven years:
- Agricultural exports have nearly doubled,
- Food grain output has risen by 90 million metric tonnes,
- Production of fruits and vegetables has increased by 64 million metric tonnes,
- India has become the largest producer of milk and the second-largest fish producer globally,
- Honey production has effectively doubled since 2014.
Furthermore, Modi noted that the establishment of over 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) aims to bolster farmer cooperation and enhance market access, a critical factor in the economic empowerment of farmers.
The PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana draws inspiration from the successful Aspirational Districts Model. PM Modi emphasized the government’s goal to empower every farmer through innovation, technology, and an inclusive growth strategy.
