Double-engine govt committed to farmers’ welfare: CM Saini

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, emphasising the need for special strategies to support small landholders. Addressing a pre-Budget consultation meeting at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU), the Chief Minister said, “Seventy per cent of farmers in Haryana have small landholdings. The upcoming Budget will focus on increasing their profits to make them economically prosperous.”

The meeting included Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana, Public Health Engineering Minister Ranbir Gangwa and agricultural experts, alongside over 52 progressive farmers. Members of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) also contributed their suggestions during the second session.

Highlighting agriculture’s contribution of 18% to the state’s GDP, CM Saini stressed initiatives like e-mandis and organic farming to empower farmers. “Our focus is on ensuring that even small farmers can earn a good income. For this, we are exploring innovative measures such as promoting organic farming, crop diversification and modern market connectivity,” he said.

The Chief Minister praised local farmers for their efforts in adopting new practices like strawberry cultivation in Hisar’s Syadhwa village and kinnow farming in Sirsa. He urged others to diversify beyond traditional crops to enhance income and achieve sustainable growth.

Acknowledging the improved infrastructure under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Saini said better road and rail connectivity has eased the transportation of crops, benefiting farmers nationwide. He also lauded Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat for his efforts in advancing organic farming.

CM Saini encouraged citizens, farmers and FPO representatives to submit Budget-related suggestions through the state government’s portal. “The state government is keen on including suggestions from all stakeholders to ensure a holistic Budget,” he assured.

The Chief Minister was joined by Chief Principal Secretary Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary (Agriculture) Raja Shekhar Vundru and HAU Vice-Chancellor Prof BR Kamboj.

“Today’s discussions and suggestions will shape the upcoming Budget, focusing on the uplift of farmers and ensuring their sustainable growth,” Saini said.