Agriculture is the lifeline of our nation! Over 60% of India derives its livelihood from agriculture, tirelessly working in the lush green fields so that a nation of a billion people does not starve. The hardwork and spirit of our farmers is such that any thing we say, any praise we shower, is less!

In the yesteryears, Gujarat was never known for agricultural success. This was a land associated with the Rann, a land where droughts were common seven out of the ten years, a land where dust storms, not thunder storms prevailed. Nor did the state have perennial rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, Krishna or Godavari. Agriculture growth rate was barely half of the national average. Such was the situation till a decade ago.

A paradigm sift occurred in 2001 when Shri Narendra Modi took over as Chief Minister. He turned this challenge of poor agrarian output into an opportunity and undertook a series of initiatives to benefit the condition of the farmer. And today, the results are for all to see; while the nation’s agriculture growth is around 2.5-3%, Gujarat has maintained consistent agriculture growth of 11%! Today, Gujarat’s farmers are not only growing more but also earning more and most importantly are important contributors in the development journey of the state!

Krishi Mahotsav is an annual imitative of the Gujarat Government. Started nine years ago, the Krishi Mahotsav is a platform that enables farmers to interact with government officials and agriculture experts and brainstorm and learn about ways to enhance agro productivity. Krishi Mahotsavs have brought in a marked difference in the lives of our farmers.

Today, the farmer of Gujarat is confident, skilled and raring to go in the future! The State Government has taken several steps to empower the farmers. This includes quality infrastructure, better irrigation facilities, empowering farmers to take decisions, a direct market for farmer’s produce, contract farming among other things.

7-time increase in farmer’s income from 2001, 40% increase in agricultural land in ten years, strengthening of quality infrastructure….

The Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) provide vocational trainings to the Gujarati youth that in turn gives them an opportunity to earn a decent livelihood by opting for alternate academic system. From 275 ITIs in 2001 Gujarat has now got 1054 ITIs. In fact the Kaushalya Vardhan Kendras of Gujarat were awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration

In the last few years, we have seen commendable and innovative efforts by the farmers of Gujarat of whom the entire world has taken notice. From date cultivation in Kutch, braking records of potato cultivation in Banaskantha to quality pomegranates in South Gujarat…there is indeed a lot happening.

Who better to talk about Gujarat’s success in agriculture than Shri Narendra Modi himself!

The Doodh Sanjivani Project is an initiative that provides fortified milk to children. Initiated in partnership with local dairies, this project is a landmark step in creating a healthier and better nourished Gujarat.