Addressing a press conference, he discussed several important issues. He stated that it was a privilege to return to Punjab, and the primary objective of this visit was to review agricultural and rural development initiatives.
During the visit, the Union Minister stated that there has been an 85% reduction in stubble burning in Punjab this year, a positive result of increased farmer awareness and government initiatives. He stated that instead of burning stubble, it can yield numerous benefits by mulching it with the soil.
Shivraj Chouhan claimed that the central government’s policies have reduced farmers’ farming costs and increased production. He stated that improved implementation of technology and schemes in the agricultural sector is significantly benefiting farmers. He explained that during the recent floods in Punjab, he personally visited the situation. At that time, the central government had assured that all damaged houses would receive financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The Punjab government sent a list of 36,000 flood-affected houses to the central government. Of these, 30,000 have been accepted, while 6,000 are still pending. The process of constructing permanent houses for those who have kutcha houses is progressing rapidly.
The Union Agriculture Minister stated that over ₹6,000 crore has been disbursed to Punjab so far under MNREGA. Additionally, ₹842 crore has been released to Punjab this year to further accelerate employment and development work in rural areas. Several prominent leaders, including Sunil Jakhar, accompanied Chouhan, and the situation in various districts of Punjab was discussed.
