Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for greater involvement and engagement of the private sector in agriculture, particularly in the R&D.
“There had been many contributions by the private sector towards research and development in the agriculture sector but it is time to increase participation of the private sector in Research and Development in the agriculture sector. It should not be limited to just seeds, but a holistic scientific ecosystem associated with one crop, the entire
cycle,” said PM Modi while addressing a webinar on the implementation of Budget 2021 in the agriculture sector.
Addressing the concerns over contract farming, he said, “Contract farming is being done in some form or the other for a long time. Our efforts should be that contract farming should not just become a business but we should also fulfill our responsibilities towards that land.”
He added that with food processing, “We must also focus on helping the smallest farmers with modern technology.”
Elaborating his point by citing an example, he said, “Just like we have a network for blood testing, we must have a network for soil testing.”
Endorsing the provisions taken for the agriculture sector in Union Budget 2021, the Prime Minister reiterated that his government is working in the interests of the farmers.
“We have made reforms and started Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes worth Rs 11000 crore which will help the agro-industries. Ready to eat, ready to cook, seafood, and several other items are being promoted,” he said.
