“NEW RADIO PROGRAM ‘KISAN SE BAAT’ LAUNCHED”

Why in the news?

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has introduced ‘Kisan Se Baat,’ a monthly radio program to connect farmers with experts, addressing farming concerns and practices.

About the Introduction of ‘Kisan Se Baat’:

  • Launch: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan introduced a monthly radio program called ‘Kisan Se Baat.’
  • Inspiration: The program is modelled after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat.’
  • Objective: Aims to connect farmers with the minister, agriculture scientists, and ministry officials.

Program Features

  • Content: The show will discuss farming best practices, new technologies, and methods to enhance productivity.
  • Expert Participation: Agriculture sector experts will cover topics like soil health, irrigation, crop management, and pest control.
  • Interactive Component: Farmers can raise their concerns and issues, which will be addressed during the program.
NEW RADIO PROGRAM 'KISAN SE BAAT' LAUNCHED - UPSCsource:theindianexpress
Key Government Flagship Schemes in Agriculture:

Soil Health and Micronutrients:

  • Soil Health Card: Provides soil nutrient status and strategies for improving soil health.
  • Neem Coated Urea (NCU): Regulates urea use, improves nitrogen availability, and reduces costs.
  • PM-PRANAM: Promotes alternative fertilisers and balanced use to protect the environment.

Agricultural and Livestock Insurance:

  • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Offers crop insurance against natural risks with low premiums.
  • Scheme for Livestock Insurance: Protects against livestock loss and promotes insurance benefits.

Irrigation:

  • Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Provides protected irrigation to enhance crop yield.
  • Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF): Supports adoption of micro-irrigation techniques with a ₹5,000 crore fund.

Agricultural Marketing:

  • Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure (AMI) Scheme: Develops storage infrastructure and enhances market facilities.
  • E-NAM: Promotes online marketing of agro commodities for better market access.

Organic Farming:

  • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY): Encourages organic farming with a focus on sustainability.
  • Mission Organic Value Chain Development for Northeastern Region: Supports organic farming in the Northeast.

Agriculture Extension:

  • Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK): Provides agricultural extension services and technology dissemination.
  • Kisan Call Centers (KCC): Offers direct support to farmers via telephone in their local language.

Other Schemes:

  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Provides direct income support to small farmers.
  • National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Enhances agricultural output through sustainable practices.