Sat Jan 04 15:56:08 UTC 2025: ## Indian Agriculture Minister Forecasts 3.5-4% Sector Growth, Seeks State Input for Budget
**New Delhi, January 4, 2025** – Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a virtual meeting with state and union territory agriculture ministers today to review ongoing schemes and gather input for the upcoming budget. He projected a 3.5% to 4% growth rate for the agriculture and allied sectors this year.
Chouhan highlighted a six-point government strategy for farmer welfare, encompassing increased production, cost reduction, income enhancement, crop legalization, and promotion of natural farming. He emphasized the progress of schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, PM Crop Insurance Scheme, and the Agri Infra Fund.
A key focus of the meeting was to solicit suggestions from state ministers regarding the upcoming budget, incorporating feedback from farmers and stakeholders. The minister stressed the importance of addressing farmers’ concerns directly.
Significant changes were also announced regarding crop loss assessment. The government will now utilize satellite-based remote sensing technology, replacing manual assessments, for more accurate evaluations under the crop insurance scheme. To expedite claims, insurance companies will face a 12% interest penalty for delays.
Furthermore, the government will cover transportation and storage costs for tomato, onion, and potato crops to mitigate price discrepancies between producing and consuming states during peak harvest seasons. The Minister urged states to cooperate fully in implementing these initiatives.
First Piper 