Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): The Haryana government has launched a significant initiative aimed at empowering the farming community by facilitating national exposure visits to learn advanced agricultural techniques. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana announced that progressive farmers from every district will be selected for these study tours to gain firsthand experience with the latest innovations in the sector. The primary goal of this programme is to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern technology, allowing farmers to increase their income and adapt to emerging global market trends. By observing successful models in other states, thousands of local farmers will be able to witness national-level agricultural reforms and implement positive changes in their own fields.
This initiative fulfills a commitment made by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini during his recent budget speech. The planned agricultural journeys will take participants to states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana, which have been specifically selected for their unique achievements in the field. For instance, farmers will have the opportunity to study micro-irrigation systems in Gujarat, advanced grape and pomegranate horticulture in Maharashtra, and cutting-edge seed production techniques in Telangana. The government believes that seeing these successful models in person will inspire Haryana’s farmers to adopt new crops and methods that are compatible with the local soil and climate.
A central component of these exposure visits is the focus on direct market linkage and entrepreneurship. Farmers will be taught how to reduce their reliance on intermediaries by selling their produce directly to consumers or large retailers. The programme includes meetings with successful farmer groups in other provinces that have excelled in grading, packaging, and branding their products. This approach is intended to boost the confidence of the participants and encourage them to view agriculture as a professional business venture rather than a mere subsistence activity. By understanding the value chain from the field to the retail shelf, farmers can secure better prices for their hard work.
The long-term vision of this scheme is to cultivate a network of master trainers across the province. Once these farmers return from their visits with newfound knowledge and practical experience, they will act as mentors and guides for others in their respective villages and districts. Minister Shyam Singh Rana emphasized that providing practical knowledge on topics such as water conservation, natural farming, and modern technology will trigger a revolutionary change in Haryana’s agricultural landscape. Ultimately, these efforts are expected to strengthen the rural economy and significantly improve the overall standard of living for the farming community.
