Collector Shri Arun Vishwakarma conducted a joint review meeting with the Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, and Cooperation departments. He instructed officials to formulate an effective action plan to ensure that government schemes reach farmers, leading to an increase in their income. He emphasized the adoption of modern and advanced agricultural techniques, the promotion of cash crops and horticulture farming, and comprehensive training for farmers.
During the review of the agriculture department, the collector assessed the area under Kharif and Rabi crops, irrigated land, irrigation resources, the number of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) holders, and the status of soil testing laboratories. He instructed officials to organize farm visits for progressive farmers to inspire others. Additionally, he stressed the need to promote animal husbandry and fisheries to enhance farmers' incomes.
While reviewing the horticulture department, the collector directed officials to expand the area under horticultural crops and increase awareness about government schemes. He emphasized the importance of providing farmers with modern agricultural techniques and high-quality seeds to improve productivity and income.
During the fisheries department review, the collector evaluated the water resources in the district and their utilization for fish farming. It was reported that 395 ponds and reservoirs, covering a total water area of 958.90 hectares, are being used for fisheries. Additionally, 55 out of 56 irrigation reservoirs in the district are engaged in fish farming.
Banks Directed to Expedite KCC Approvals: Under the fisheries production target, the district has achieved 8,156.458 metric tons out of the set goal of 9,270 metric tons. There are 89 registered fisheries committees with 2,430 members in the district. The collector reviewed the status of KCC (Kisan Credit Card) holders in the fisheries sector and directed banks to expedite the approval of pending KCC applications.
Special Initiatives for Animal Husbandry and Cattle Shelters: While reviewing the Animal Husbandry department, the collector discussed the district’s livestock population, milk production, vaccination programs, the National Livestock Mission, and mobile veterinary units. Prioritizing the protection of stray cattle, he stressed the need for transparency in managing cattle shelters and ensuring regular inspections.
He instructed Janpad CEOs and municipal officials (CMOs) to coordinate efforts to relocate stray cattle to shelters, ensuring adequate fodder, health check-ups, and vaccination. Furthermore, he directed officials to link women from self-help groups (SHGs) to dairy farming and provide them with benefits under the Dairy Animal Distribution Scheme.