Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday said in the Lok Sabha that farmers’ incomes in India have not only doubled but, in several cases, increased two to three times and even up to eight times.
Government Defends Record on Farmers’ Income
Responding during Question Hour, the minister said the government has taken multiple steps to improve farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen rural infrastructure.
He also criticized previous governments, stating that villages earlier lacked basic facilities such as:
- Electricity
- Water supply
- Roads
Madhya Pradesh Example Highlighted
Citing the example of Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan said that earlier farmers could grow only one crop due to poor electricity supply.
“Power supply was unreliable—electricity came less and went more. Sometimes, only electricity bills would arrive,” he remarked.
He added that improved irrigation facilities and 24-hour power supply have enabled farmers to now cultivate up to three crops a year, significantly boosting their income.
Sharp Increase in Agriculture Budget
The minister highlighted a major increase in agricultural spending:
- Earlier agriculture budget: ₹19,306 crore
- Current agriculture budget: Over ₹1.3 lakh crore
- Combined allocation (agriculture and allied sectors): Over ₹5 lakh crore
Growth in Production and Farmer Support Schemes
Chouhan said agricultural production has seen significant growth:
- Earlier growth: Around 14%
- Current growth: Around 44%
He also highlighted key government initiatives:
- Annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 under PM-KISAN scheme
- Easy access to credit through Kisan Credit Card (KCC)
Opposition Raises Question in Lok Sabha
The statement came in response to a question raised by Sougata Roy regarding farmers’ income during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha.
