Centre Calls on Northern States to Accelerate Implementation of Central Agricultural Schemes

The Agriculture Secretary, Devesh Chaturvedi, has called on northeastern states to speed up the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes. He stressed the need for timely fund allocation and resolving issues related to state contributions and single nodal account balances. Chaturvedi highlighted the importance of operationalising SNA-SPARSH, returning unused balances and interest, and submitting utilisation certificates promptly, according to an official statement.

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A regional conference was held by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in the capital to review agricultural schemes in northern states. Officials from Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Union Territories like Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Delhi met at Krishi Bhawan. They assessed progress and tackled challenges in implementing these schemes effectively.

Focus on Major Agricultural Schemes

The conference aimed to enhance the execution of major schemes such as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana. States that were lagging were encouraged to improve their performance in the remaining months of the fiscal year. Chaturvedi advised states to finalise the RKVY annual action plan for 2025-26 by December. This would ensure the first installment is released by April, reducing previous delays in fund utilisation.

A thorough review of key initiatives was conducted, covering the Kisan Credit Card Mission, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), and Digital Agriculture Mission. The conference underscored the necessity for digital integration in crop surveys and aligning state land records with the agristack to streamline operations under PM KISAN.

Addressing High-Priority Issues

High-priority topics such as the National Edible Oils Mission and NABL accreditation for laboratories under the Insecticides Act were also discussed. The meeting explored efficient use of the Krishi Nivesh Portal and Agricultural Infrastructure Fund to promote sector growth. This regional conference is part of a series by the Centre aimed at addressing specific regional agricultural needs.

The goal is to achieve equitable and sustainable agricultural development across India. By focusing on these areas, the government seeks to enhance productivity and efficiency in agriculture while ensuring that resources are utilised effectively.