Shillong, Oct 30: Over 350 farmers across Meghalaya joined live programmes for the release of the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Banaskantha, Gujarat, on Friday.
The PM released over Rs 18,690 crore to 9.34 crore farmers nationwide. Under the scheme, eligible families receive Rs 6,000 annually in three instalments of Rs 2,000 via DBT.
At Umiam, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, District Agriculture Office and KVK Ri-Bhoi organised a programme for 105 farmers. ICAR Director Dr. G. Kadirvel urged farmers to leverage PM-KISAN, PMFBY and PM-KUSUM with scientific practices. DAO Serolyne Chyne advised timely e-KYC, Aadhaar seeding and bank verification. KVK Head Dr. Mokidul Islam highlighted KVK’s training support.
In West Khasi Hills, KVK organised a webcast at Mawthadraishan for 127 farmers. Mawthadraishan BJP Mandal President Robarding Lyngdoh attended as chief guest.
At Wahiajer, KVK Jaintia Hills and the Agriculture Department held a programme at KVK Training Hall.
ICAR-ATARI Zone VII Director Dr. A. K. Mohanty urged judicious use of PM-KISAN assistance for seeds and inputs and to avail PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Kisan Credit Card, PM Kisan Maandhan and PM Matsya Sampada Yojana.
He stressed soil health, Soil Health Cards, organic farming, composting, azolla in paddy and mulching for second crops like toria and peas.
MgSFAC Joint Managing Director Adela Suting lauded millet farmers reviving traditional crops. KVK Senior Head Scientist Dr Dayohimi Rymbai flagged the need for better market linkages and a millet buyback mechanism.
The highlight was the felicitation of Khanduli farmers Darapbiang Mulieh, Sitrian Surong and Daieidlangki Suchiang for promoting finger millet Krea, after being mentioned by the PM in Mann Ki Baat on October 25.
Mulieh shared experiences and marketing challenges. SMS (Agronomy) R. Lyngdoh was acknowledged for promoting millet cultivation.
