New DELHI, Jan 2: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has accused the Delhi government of denying farmers the benefits of central schemes and has urged Chief Minister Atishi to set aside political differences for the sake of farmer welfare.
In a letter addressed to Atishi, Chouhan remarked that the AAP government has fallen short in executing significant central initiatives such as the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, and the Beej Gram programme.
“It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter. Your administration has consistently failed to make decisions in the best interest of farmers. The implementation of farmer-friendly central schemes has been halted by your government, reflecting a lack of compassion for farmers. Currently, farmers in Delhi are frustrated and anxious,” Chouhan stated in the letter dated January 1.
He emphasized that the incomplete implementation of these central schemes has denied Delhi’s farmers essential benefits, from seed distribution to infrastructure enhancement.
Chouhan pointed out that the lack of the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission has hindered farmers from accessing vital support for nursery establishment, tissue culture facilities, procurement of planting materials, and improvement of post-harvest infrastructure.
The non-implementation of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana has also adversely affected farmers’ ability to obtain agricultural machinery, precision irrigation, soil health support, crop insurance, and services provided under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana.
Chouhan also voiced concerns about the non-execution of the Beej Gram programme, which would provide vital benefits, including seed distribution, testing facilities, and enhancement of laboratory infrastructure, along with support for seed certification agencies.
According to Chouhan, Delhi’s farmers are further burdened as agricultural equipment like tractors and harvesters are classified as commercial vehicles, leading to increased acquisition costs.
He noted that despite the AAP government’s promises of free electricity, farmers are being charged commercial rates for power. Furthermore, farmers along the Yamuna river are facing hardships after being disconnected from power for their irrigation equipment.
“Your government has been at the helm for the last ten years, and it seems that former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has let down the farmers after making election promises,” Chouhan indicated.
The minister called on the Delhi government to promptly implement central agricultural schemes, emphasizing that political rivalry should not obstruct farmer welfare.
“The welfare of farmers is a governmental obligation, irrespective of party lines,” he added.
The Delhi government’s response is still awaited. (PTI)
