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Priya Singh
Guwahati: Assam is looking to expand its agricultural opportunities in Karbi Anglong, with the state government reviewing farm infrastructure, farmer support schemes and new crops that could improve rural incomes.
During a review meeting held at Taralangso on Wednesday, Assam Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Pijush Hazarika assessed the implementation of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) and several other agriculture initiatives in the district. The meeting was held during his first visit to Karbi Anglong as the district’s Guardian Minister.
A major focus of the meeting was ensuring that more farmers and agri-entrepreneurs can access AIF-backed support. The fund provides loans with a 3% interest subvention, with officials reviewing its utilisation and ways to widen its reach.
The minister also reviewed the coverage of PM-KISAN in the district. Land ownership issues were identified as one of the areas requiring attention so that eligible farmers are not left out of the scheme.
Paddy procurement was another key issue discussed during the meeting, with emphasis on timely implementation and ensuring that procurement arrangements work effectively for farmers.
The review also touched upon opportunities for women entrepreneurs in agriculture and allied activities, indicating a broader focus on creating more income-generating opportunities in rural areas.
Assam is also looking at strengthening high-value agricultural activities in the region. Hazarika reviewed targets for oil palm and horticulture cultivation, highlighting oil palm’s potential to provide better returns to farmers.
The state has set a target of producing five crore horticulture saplings annually, according to the details shared during the meeting.
For pineapple growers, the emphasis was on moving beyond production and focusing on processing and value addition. The approach could help farmers capture a larger share of the value generated from rising production.
One of the key announcements from the meeting was the proposed Makhana Mission for Assam.
Hazarika directed the Agriculture Department to prepare a dedicated mission aimed at expanding makhana, also known as fox nut, cultivation in the state. The initiative is being seen as another avenue to diversify farm activities and raise farmers’ incomes.
The government has assured support for the proposed initiative, while the wider objective remains to turn agriculture schemes and crop diversification efforts into tangible economic opportunities for farmers and agri-entrepreneurs in Karbi Anglong.
