category Regional, chandigarh, , tags Regional, chandigarh, , DW BUREAU chandigarh The agricultural landscape of Haryana is undergoing a transformative renaissance, thanks to the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal. Manohar Sarkar s multifaceted approach is not merely about cultivating crops; it s a holistic commitment to empower farmers, ensure fair prices, and promote sustainable farming practices. Gone are the days when farmers had to endure prolonged waits in mandis. Haryana stands tall as the first state to implement the purchase of 14 crops on Minimum Support Price (MSP). This strategic move not only alleviates the struggles of farmers but also sets a precedent for agricultural policies across the nation. The sweet success of the government s endeavours is most evident in the sugarcane fields. Recognizing the pivotal role of sugarcane farmers, the government has elevated prices per quintal to the highest in the country, from 372 to 386. Furthermore, a forward-thinking announcement of a future price of Rs 400 per quintal promises economic resilience for those toiling in sugarcane cultivation. Furthermore, it is the Manohar Sarkar that has leveraged technology to benefit farmers through initiatives like the Meri Fasal Mera Byora portal. Over the last seven seasons, a staggering Rs 85,000 crore has been seamlessly deposited into the accounts of 12 lakh farmers, ensuring a direct and efficient financial lifeline. Besides this, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has added an additional layer of security, with 29.45 lakh farmers benefiting from claims amounting to Rs. 7,656 crore. The state s commitment to water-saving practices and sustainable agriculture is evident through initiatives like the Mera Pani-Meri Virasat scheme that encourages farmers to shift from water-intensive rice cultivation to alternative crops. With financial incentives totalling Rs. 118 crores to farmers at a rate of Rs. 7,000 per acre, this initiative not only conserves water but also enriches the agricultural tapestry with diverse crops. Under this visionary scheme, a staggering 1,74,464 acres once dedicated to traditional rice cultivation have witnessed a paradigm shift. (editor dailyworld.in)