Calling for transformation in the agricultural sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the country cannot move forward unless farmers make progress, adding that there is need to increase average foodgrain productivity from 2 tonnes per hectare to 3 tonnes per hectare.
Launching DD Kisan, Doordarshan’s dedicated channel for farmers, Modi said there is need to make the sector “ vibrant and dynamic”, calling for making the Tehsil a unit of agricultural planning and development.
“If the country has to move forward, villages must progress, and if the villages are to progress, then it is essential for agriculture to progress,” he added.
Recalling former Prime Minister Lal Bhadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”, he called upon farmers and scientists to use modern science and advanced techniques to boost the sector.
On the problem of malnutrition, he said it is essential that pulses reach the poorest and urged agricultural universities and scientists to work with the farmers to meet domestic demand by 2022.
He made a similar pitch for self sufficiency for production in oilseeds.
The 24x7 channel will telecast information on agriculture and related subjects, and is targeted at farmers, cattle-rearers, bee-keepers, poultry owners, mechanics and craftsmen. It will include information on the changing weather conditions well in advance, and low-cost measures to protect crops and enhance productivity. Advice of weather and agricultural scientists will be broadcast periodically. The channel has tied up with IMD, IARI, agricultural universities, Krish Vigyan Kendras among others.