India’s 75th Republic Day Parade unfolded with grandeur at Kartavya Path, Delhi, on January 26, 2024. This year, the Government of India extended special invitations to over 15,000 individuals from diverse sectors to witness the momentous parade, showcasing the nation’s progress and unity.
In a significant gesture, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) extended invitations to more than 1500 farmers, beneficiaries of central government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana. These farmers were part of a two-day program and training organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) on January 25th and 26th, 2024.
The program included comprehensive training sessions on key government schemes and initiatives, including the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, Per Drop More Crop, and PMFBY, along with a field visit to the renowned fields of PUSA Campus. The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, and MoS Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, emphasizing the government’s commitment to farmers’ economic well-being.
On January 26th, the special invitees witnessed the spectacular parade at Kartavya Path, followed by interactions with Union Minister Shri Arjun Munda at PUSA. The event also saw the presence of Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, and Shri Kailash Choudhary, Secretary-DARE, and Director-General, ICAR, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, among others.
Union Minister Shri Arjun Munda highlighted the pivotal role of farmers in shaping the nation’s progress, citing achievements such as a fivefold increase in the agriculture budget, record-breaking food grain and horticulture production, and significant MSP hikes. He also underscored government initiatives like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, and schemes promoting organic farming, showcasing strides in enhancing the agricultural landscape.
The event concluded with a group photo session for farmers alongside ministers and dignitaries, followed by a curated lunch. The venue featured dedicated selfie stands and banners showcasing MoA&FW’s schemes and initiatives, adding to the highlights of the two-day celebration.
Farmers actively engaged at the designated stands, expressing their delight as they posed for photographs, marking a memorable Republic Day celebration.