In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s visionary agricultural policies have transformed the lives of farmers over the past nine years. What began as a promise to strengthen the ‘annadatas’ has evolved into a full-fledged revolution in the farming sector.
When Yogi assumed office in 2017, Uttar Pradesh’s agriculture was plagued by inefficiencies, low productivity, and farmer distress. Today, the state stands as a beacon of progress. Investments in irrigation infrastructure have expanded canal networks and promoted micro-irrigation techniques, ensuring water reaches even the remotest fields.
The Uttar Pradesh Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana has become a lifeline, providing direct income support to millions of farmers. Coupled with robust procurement systems at minimum support prices, these measures have boosted farmer incomes by over 50% in key crop categories.
Technological adoption has been a game-changer. Drone technology for pesticide spraying, AI-driven crop monitoring, and soil health cards have modernized farming practices. UP now leads in organic farming initiatives, with dedicated clusters producing chemical-free produce for domestic and export markets.
Crop diversification efforts have reduced dependency on traditional crops like wheat and rice. Horticulture and floriculture have flourished, creating new revenue streams. The state’s mango and guava production has surged, positioning UP as India’s fruit basket.
Government-backed cold chain logistics and food processing units have minimized post-harvest losses, which previously claimed 30% of produce. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have empowered smallholders to access markets directly, bypassing exploitative middlemen.
Yogi’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal land mafia and farm loan waivers worth thousands of crores have restored confidence among farmers. Natural farming promotion under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana has attracted youth back to agriculture.
Data speaks volumes: UP’s agricultural GDP contribution has risen by 25%, GSDP growth in the sector averages 6.5% annually, and farmer suicides have plummeted by 70%. From being a ‘BIMARU’ state, Uttar Pradesh now rivals progressive agricultural economies.
As Yogi Adityanath completes nine years, farmers celebrate not just policy successes but a renewed sense of dignity and prosperity. The annadatta’s strengthened hand promises a self-reliant, Atmanirbhar Bharat.