Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the strength of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth while inaugurating the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana in New Delhi on Tuesday. He highlighted the introduction of train services from the Valley, which markedly enhances the movement of goods across regions.
The launch of the ₹24,000 crore scheme aims to boost agricultural productivity, promote crop diversification, and support sustainable farming practices in 100 targeted districts. Modi’s remarks came during an engaging interaction with progressive farmers from various states, showcasing the government’s commitment to the agricultural sector.
Fayaz Ahmad Ganaie, a farmer hailing from Ganderbal district, shared his impressive success story with the Prime Minister. “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,” Ganaie informed Modi, crediting his business growth to the government’s initiatives.
In response, PM Modi acknowledged the progress made, stating, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have immense strength. Now with the train services, goods have been moving fast from the Kashmir valley.”
The newly established goods train services directly connect New Delhi to Kashmir, a significant development that facilitates the transport of vehicles, apples, and other fruits for the first time through direct routes between Srinagar and the national capital.
During the event, the Prime Minister encouraged farmers to gradually transition to natural farming techniques. He urged them to conduct small-scale experiments to build confidence in sustainable agricultural practices, a suggestion that several farmers have begun to explore following previous discussions with Modi.
One woman farmer praised the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, describing the annual ₹6,000 assistance as “a blessing” that enables her to purchase seeds and timely prepare her fields. Additionally, farmers displayed innovative agricultural techniques, including aeroponically grown “Jain potato” and garlic products in various forms such as paste and powder.
Highlighting the agricultural advancements over the last decade, Modi stated, “In the past 11 years, agricultural exports have nearly doubled. Foodgrain output has risen by 90 million metric tonnes, and fruit and vegetable production has increased by 64 million metric tonnes.” Modi noted that India now holds the top position in milk production and ranks as the second-largest fish producer globally, with honey production witnessing a significant rise since 2014.
The Prime Minister further announced that over 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have been established to promote farmer cooperation and improve market accessibility.
Explaining the motivation behind the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, Modi drew inspiration from the successful Aspirational Districts Model, reiterating the government’s vision to empower every farmer through technological innovation and inclusive growth methods.
