Centre Urges Northern States to Expedite 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 promptly submitting utilisation certificates.

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

Focus on Major Agricultural Schemes

The conference aimed to improve the execution of significant schemes like Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and Krishonnati Yojana. States that were lagging were encouraged to enhance their efforts in the remaining fiscal months. 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 covered initiatives such as the Kisan Credit Card Mission, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and Digital Agriculture Mission. The need for digital integration in crop surveys was emphasised. Aligning state land records with the agristack was also discussed to streamline operations under PM KISAN.

Addressing High-Priority Issues

High-priority topics like the National Edible Oils Mission and NABL accreditation for laboratories under the Insecticides Act were also on the agenda. The meeting discussed 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. It seeks equitable and sustainable agricultural development across India.