The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Kisan Samman Sammelan in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday and released the 17th instalment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) through Direct Benefit Transfer amounting to more than Rs 20,000 crores to around 9.26 crore beneficiary farmers.
During the program, Modi also granted certificates to more than 30,000 women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) as Krishi Sakhis. Farmers from all over the country were linked with the event through technology.
PM Modi underscored the strategic initiatives like the Krishi Sakhi and Drone Didi programs aimed at empowering women in agriculture. He also spoke about the use of technology in ensuring efficient benefit transfer to farmers and the role of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yojana in enrolling new beneficiaries under the PM-KISAN scheme.
He stressed the importance of self-reliance in agriculture, particularly in pulses and oilseeds, and envisioned India as a leading agricultural exporter, supported by initiatives like One District One Product.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the establishment of Kisan Samiddhi Kendras to promote millets, herbal products, and natural farming.
Significant development projects in Varanasi, such as the Banas Dairy initiative and the modernization of fish markets under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, were discussed.
These efforts aim to enhance local incomes and support rural economies.
Additionally, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the people of Varanasi for their continued support and reflected on the democratic process following the recent general elections. He emphasized the significant voter turnout in India, comparing it to combined voter numbers from G7 nations and the European Union, and highlighted the extensive participation of over 31 crore women voters.
PM Modi outlined his government’s first decisions in office, focusing on initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and poor families, including the expansion of PM Awas Yojana and the disbursement of PM-KISAN funds.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, the Chief Minister, and other senior officials, who collectively underscored their commitment to India’s agricultural and rural development.
