In Banaskantha district of Gujarat, a significant number of farmers have benefited from the government’s support price scheme for millet. This year, 1,137 farmers received a total of ₹19.58 crores directly into their bank accounts. The millet purchase started after the government announced the support price. A registration portal was opened from April 1 to April 30 for farmers to sign up online. From 3,622 registered farmers, 2,645 received messages on their mobile phones about the scheme.
The Banaskantha district supply department set up eight purchase centers across the district. Farmers were able to sell their millet at the support price until July 15. In total, 9,155 metric tons of millet were purchased at a rate of ₹2,925 per quintal as per the government’s fixed support price. From May 1 to July 15, 1,667 farmers sold 9,150 metric tons of millet.
However, at the Dhanera center, not a single farmer sold millet. Among the other centers, 396 farmers sold in Deesa, 69 in Kankrej, 172 in Tharad, 419 in Lakhni, 160 in Diyodhar, 317 in Palanpur, and 104 in Vadgam. This shows that while many farmers took advantage of the scheme, some areas did not see any participation.
The support price initiative aims to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their crops. It also encourages farmers to cultivate millet, a nutritious grain that can play a vital role in food security. The government hopes that such schemes will improve the livelihoods of farmers and boost agriculture in the region.
Millet is known for its health benefits and is often referred to as a superfood. It is rich in nutrients and can help address malnutrition in many communities. The government’s focus on millet is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure food security in India.
Farmers in Banaskantha expressed their gratitude for the support price scheme. Many believe it will motivate them to grow more millet in the future. The ease of online registration also made it simple for them to participate in the program. This reflects a positive step towards modernising agricultural practices in Gujarat.
As the millet purchase period comes to an end, the government is expected to assess the impact of this initiative. They will look into the participation rates and the overall benefits to farmers. This assessment will help in planning future agricultural policies and support schemes.
Overall, the millet purchase initiative in Banaskantha is a promising development for farmers. It shows the government’s commitment to supporting agriculture and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. As more farmers learn about and engage in such schemes, the future of agriculture in Gujarat looks hopeful.