Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently emphasized the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth during an event in New Delhi, highlighting the newly inaugurated train services that significantly enhance trade movement from the Valley.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came during a special interactive session with progressive farmers from across the nation, coinciding with the launch of the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana. This ambitious ₹24,000 crore initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity, promote crop diversification, and support sustainable farming in 100 selected districts.
Among the farmers present, Fayaz Ahmad Ganaie from Ganderbal district shared his inspiring success story. He attributed his prosperity to the government’s supportive policies. Ganaie proudly stated, “I’ve come from Kashmir. I saw your progressive schemes for farmers and availed their benefits. Today, I have 14 employees and earn around ₹15 lakh in profits annually.”
In response, PM Modi affirmed the significance of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth, saying, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have immense strength. Now with the train services, goods have been moving fast from the Kashmir valley.” This statement reinforces the government’s commitment to fostering the potential of young individuals in the region.
The introduction of goods train services linking New Delhi directly with Kashmir marks a historic development, allowing for the uninterrupted transport of essential goods such as vehicles, apples, and other fruits. This development brings unprecedented logistical ease for trade between the Valley and other parts of the country.
During the event, PM Modi encouraged farmers to gradually adopt natural farming methods, suggesting they start small to build confidence in these sustainable practices. Several farmers shared their positive experiences with innovative agricultural techniques following previous engagements with the Prime Minister.
A woman farmer from the audience praised the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, describing the annual financial support of ₹6,000 as a “blessing.” She expressed gratitude for the funds that helped her purchase seeds and prepare her fields on time. Other farmers presented innovative practices, including the aeroponic cultivation of Jain potatoes and value-added garlic products like paste and powder.
Highlighting India’s remarkable agricultural achievements, PM Modi shared impressive statistics from the past 11 years: agricultural exports have nearly doubled, food grain output has risen by an astonishing 90 million metric tonnes, and fruit and vegetable production has increased by 64 million metric tonnes. Furthermore, India now leads the world in milk production and ranks as the second-largest fish producer globally, while honey production has doubled since 2014.
As part of his address, PM Modi noted the establishment of over 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) aimed at empowering farmers and improving market access. These initiatives align with the government’s broader vision of enhancing agricultural resilience and innovation.
The inspiration for the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana stems from the successes of the Aspirational Districts Model, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth through technology and creativity in the agricultural sector.
