JAIPUR: Chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday slammed the Centre alleging that the Narendra Modi government had failed in fulfilling its promise of doubling farmers' income, but his government has implemented several schemes to uplift them in the state.
He was addressing the media at Pant Krishi Bhawan, where the newly appointed chairman of Rajasthan Kisan Ayog, Mahadeo Singh Khandela, took charge.
“The prime minister had said the farmers' income will be doubled by 2022. Perhaps, he has not been successful yet. We know how to increase the income, how to strengthen the farmers, which is why many schemes and innovations are being implemented in Rajasthan,” Gehlot said. For the first time, he said that his government has decided to present a separate budget for the farmers this year. “On February 23 I hope you will feel good that the first attempt has been made. There may be some shortcomings, but when you give suggestions, next time we will improve it,” he said. Gehlot claimed that the separate budget and a special feeder for agriculture promised by the state government would transform agriculture in the state. He also invited suggestions to be included in the budget.
He recalled, “When Narayan Singh was the chairman of the Kisan Aayog, a delegation went to Israel with the farmers. I also went later. Earlier Israel was a desert country like us, but today they have made a mark in the world in farming. We would also like our farmers to get benefits,” he said.
