Assam will issue 10 lakh soil health cards by end of the fiscal--CM

Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has officially launched the distribution of Soil Health Cards (SHC) to farmers across Assam, aiming to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the state. The government has set an ambitious target of issuing 10 lakh SHCs within the current year, with four lakh SHCs already prepared for distribution.

In a significant move to bolster agricultural infrastructure, the number of soil testing laboratories in Assam has surged from 5 to 22. This expansion has been recognized by the Central Government, which has commended Assam's initiatives in agricultural mechanization.

Further supporting agricultural development, the state government has initiated the establishment of 816 village-level farm machinery banks. These banks are being set up with a 95% subsidy from the Centre, providing essential equipment and machinery to farmers at a minimal cost. Additionally, under the APART scheme, 93 offices of Agricultural Development Officers are being inaugurated across the state to provide better access to agricultural services.

The government's decision to procure paddy at a minimum support price has been well-received by farmers. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers who often incur high transportation costs when procurement centers are located far from their villages. To address this issue, the government will offer subsidies per quintal of paddy transported to procurement centers.

The ethanol industry's growing demand for maize and wheat has prompted the state government, in collaboration with OIL India Limited and Reliance, to explore bio-fuel production within Assam. This development is expected to create new opportunities for farmers and contribute to the state's economic growth.

Sarma expressed his gratitude to Agriculture Minister Atul Bora for his efforts in revitalizing Assam's agricultural sector, which aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Asom. He also thanked the farmers for their crucial role in achieving self-reliance. Special acknowledgments were given to Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota, Chairman of Assam Seed Corporation Prabin Hazarika, Principal Secretary of Revenue GD Tripathy, and other dignitaries who attended the event.