In a strategic follow-up to the Union Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver opening remarks at a high-profile webinar on Friday. Focused on ‘Agriculture and Rural Transformation,’ the event via video conferencing will rally experts around eight sessions targeting agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and rural self-help initiatives.
The PMO announced the Prime Minister’s participation, emphasizing four core areas ripe for transformation. High-value horticulture leads with cashew, coconut, sandalwood, agarwood, almonds, walnuts, and pine—crops poised to supercharge farmer earnings.
Deliberations will cover AI-integrated digital agri-infrastructure, private sector roles in dairy chains, reservoir optimizations for fisheries via Amrit Sarovars, coastal value enhancements, and SHE-Marts for women-led rural products.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget injects Rs 1,62,671 crore into agriculture, surpassing prior estimates by 7%. This escalation from 2013-14 levels reflects a decade of intensified investments.
Regional pushes include coastal high-value plantations and hill nut cultivation, plus Northeast agarwood. A flagship coconut scheme replaces aging trees, supporting 1 crore farmers and 3 crore livelihoods overall.
Linking to national goals, Sitharaman highlighted targeted efforts for productivity and entrepreneurship under the ‘third duty’ framework. PM Modi’s address is expected to inspire execution, bridging policy to practice amid calls for tech-driven rural jobs and income growth.
Stakeholders await insights that could redefine India’s agri-landscape, ensuring sustainable prosperity for millions.