Question- Prime Minister Modi has recently launched Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana and Pulses Self-reliant Mission. How big a gift will these schemes prove to be for the farmers?

Answer- These schemes are very important for the farmers. There are some districts of the country where the production per hectare is quite good, but there are many districts where the production is very low. We have chosen those low productivity, backward and deprived districts of irrigation facilities. There 36 schemes of 11 departments will work together. This will not only increase the productivity of farmers, but will also increase the total production of the country.

Apart from this, we also want self-reliance in the matter of pulses. Today India is self-sufficient in wheat and rice, but still has dependence on foreign countries in pulses. The Prime Minister has started a special campaign to increase the production of pulses. By 2030-31 we want to achieve complete self-sufficiency in pulses, which will benefit both the farmers and the country.

Question: Why was the need for self-reliance in pulses felt? What is the main reason for this?

Answer- One of the main reasons for this is that a large population of the country is vegetarian and depends on pulses for protein. Secondly, as prosperity is increasing in India, the consumption of pulses is also increasing. People do not eat food without pulses. The third important thing is that diversification is necessary in agriculture. If we continuously cultivate wheat and rice, soil fertility will reduce, but pulses fix nitrogen and keep the soil healthy. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the cultivation of pulses.

Question- Recently you visited the flood affected areas. What relief did the farmers get? What was the role of the government?

Answer- We were among the farmers, went to their houses, stood in the water with them. The Prime Minister has given a relief package of Rs 1,600 crore to Punjab. I myself am going to Punjab on 14th October. Funds will be made available under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for the houses that have been destroyed in the floods.

Apart from this, schemes are also being implemented to remove the problem of silt accumulation. These works are being done with the cooperation of the state government because the administrative structure of our country is federal. We are making every possible effort to remove the problems of the farmers.

Question- Officers and ministers go to the fields and communicate with the farmers. What message would you like to convey through this work?

Answer- Those who get the fortune of this service, they serve the country and the farmers. Be it ministers, officers or Chief Ministers, the duty of all of us is to serve the farmers. It is necessary to understand the problem by going to the fields; farming cannot be understood by sitting in files. We will have to work hard day and night because 46 percent of the country’s population is dependent on agriculture.

Question- How much has agricultural production increased since 2014 and what are the future plans?

Answer: We have increased the production of wheat and rice so much that now we are running out of storage space. We are also exporting. Our aim is to ensure India’s food security, as well as make India the ‘Food Basket’ of the world. We are continuously working towards increasing agricultural production.

Question- What is the government’s strategy regarding fake fertilizers and substandard seeds?

Answer: Fake fertilizers, substandard seeds and pesticides are fraud on farmers. We consider this a big sin. Therefore, the government has initiated strict action against such people. From factory sealing to large scale raids are being conducted. This campaign will continue because protecting the interests of farmers is our priority.

Question- Are the benefits of FPO (Farmer Producer Organization) reaching the farmers?

Answer- Absolutely. Today more than 52 lakh farmers are associated with FPO. About 1,100 FPOs have been formed. Their turnover is more than Rs 15,000 crore. FPOs are helping farmers to get better prices and increase their productivity. We want to take it to more farmers.

Question- How will the government purchase pulses and what will be the role of the states?

Answer- Agricultural land belongs to the states, hence the role of the states is most important. Center has ensured procurement under MSP for wheat and rice. Now pulses like urad, masoor, arhar will also be purchased at MSP, especially from those farmers who have registered. MSP has also been increased manifold over the years. States will have to be active in this process.

Question- How capable is India to counter American tariffs?

Answer- Prime Minister Modi has clearly said that we will not compromise with the interests of the farmers. National interest is paramount.

Question- Is America’s entry possible in India’s agricultural market?

Answer- Any decision will be taken only keeping in mind the interests of the farmers. Our small farmers are our priority. Their safety is our responsibility.

Question- The problem of stubble burning is very serious in Delhi NCR. How has the government handled this issue?

Answer: Burning stubble is not right. We are encouraging farmers to make compost by mixing stubble in the fields and for direct seeding. In collaboration with state governments, custom machines are being made available so that farmers can avoid burning stubble and use it properly.

Question – How are you promoting the use of indigenous products?

Answer- Use of indigenous goods is necessary for self-reliant India. I myself also advise the public to adopt Swadeshi. Coming to a platform like ‘Zoho’ is also a symbol of Swadeshi.

Question- There is controversy regarding OBC reservation in Madhya Pradesh. What is your opinion?

Answer- The government there has presented its side.

Question- What will you say about Rahul Gandhi’s foreign trip?

Answer- They live less in the country and more in foreign countries. They do not seem to have any attachment to the culture and values ​​of India. It is not right to criticize your country.

Question- What are your expectations regarding Bihar elections?

Answer- From the formation of Makhana Board in Bihar to changing the lives of the common man, the work has been done very well. Double engine government will again be formed in Bihar.

Question- What is your opinion on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24 years of political service?

Answer- Prime Minister Modi’s life is completely dedicated to serving the country. He has been continuously serving the country and the state for 24 years. It is a matter of good fortune for India to have a leader like him.