Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently declared that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir possess immense strength, stating that the new train services have significantly boosted trade movement from the Valley. Modi spoke during a farmer interaction event in New Delhi, where he launched the PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, a ₹24,000 crore initiative designed to enhance agricultural productivity and promote sustainable practices across 100 districts.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came as he engaged with progressive farmers, including Fayaz Ahmad Ganaie from Ganderbal district. Ganaie shared a success story of his farming enterprise, attributing his annual profit of around ₹15 lakh to government initiatives. He relayed to Modi, “I’ve come from Kashmir. I saw your progressive schemes for farmers and availed their benefits.”
In response, PM Modi remarked, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have immense strength. Now with the train services, goods have been moving fast from the Kashmir valley.” This service enables the transport of cars, apples, and other produce directly from Srinagar to New Delhi, marking a historic moment for local trade.
The train service strengthens Jammu and Kashmir’s economic framework, ensuring smoother logistics and better market access for local products. Since its inception, the new connectivity has allowed farmers to transport their goods efficiently, thus boosting the region’s trade movement.
During the event, Modi also encouraged farmers to explore natural farming methods, advising them to experiment on small portions of land to witness positive outcomes. Farmers recounted their experiences with such innovations, showcasing their developments after previous discussions with the Prime Minister.
One woman farmer praised the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, recognizing the annual ₹6,000 financial support as a crucial aid for timely agricultural preparations. Participants also highlighted innovative practices such as the aeroponic cultivation of “Jain potato” and value-added garlic products.
PM Modi highlighted notable achievements in Indian agriculture over the past 11 years—agricultural exports have nearly doubled, food grain output expanded by 90 million metric tonnes, and fruit and vegetable production increased by 64 million metric tonnes. India now leads globally in milk production and ranks second in fish output.
Furthermore, honey production has doubled since 2014. Modi credited the establishment of over 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) with strengthening farmer cooperation and enhancing market accessibility.
The government’s PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana draws inspiration from the Aspirational Districts Model. Modi reassured that the government’s focus remains on empowering farmers through technology, innovation, and inclusive growth, ultimately working to uplift the agricultural landscape.
