GRAM-2026 in Jaipur: Rajasthan Aims to Boost Agri-Tech with Investor Outreach

The event aims to bring together farmers, agricultural experts, policymakers, and investors on a common platform to promote technology-driven farming and strengthen the agricultural ecosystem.

Addressing the GRAM-2026 Investor Meet in New Delhi, the Chief Minister noted the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Empowered Farmer, Prosperous India".

He invited investors and entrepreneurs to actively participate in the upcoming summit.

Chief Minister Sharma highlighted that GRAM-related activities are being conducted at multiple administrative levels, from Girdawar circles to districts, to ensure maximum farmer participation.

He noted that Rajasthan is a leading agricultural state, ranking first in the production of bajra, mustard, oilseeds, barley, guar, isabgol, and cumin.

This diversity, he said, offers vast opportunities in food processing, spice parks, and agri-exports.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government's commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment.

He said that MoUs worth Rs 44,000 crore were signed in the agriculture sector during the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, with more than Rs 9,000 crore already materialised.

GRAM-2026 will further accelerate this momentum, the Chief Minister added.

He also said that Jhalawar and Tonk are being developed as model districts for pulse production, while the Central government will support farmers with subsidies for distributing more than 3 lakh quintals of seeds.

Chief Minister Sharma said Rajasthan has significant potential in solar energy.

Over the past two years, the state government has released grants exceeding Rs 1,000 crore for installing more than 65,000 solar pump systems, reducing power costs and boosting productivity.

He added that the state is focusing on strengthening agri-infrastructure, including processing units, warehouses, dairy, fisheries, and animal husbandry facilities.

More than 1,500 agro-processing units have already been established, and land has been identified for new food parks.

The Chief Minister also highlighted initiatives such as the 'Spices Cell', the Rajasthan Spice Conclave, and the 'RajSpice' mobile application.

He said the state has increased assistance under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme to Rs 9,000.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Rajasthan has issued a record 21.9 million policies and disbursed claims exceeding Rs 6,500 crore.

Additional measures include a Rs 150 per quintal bonus on wheat procurement, daytime electricity supply in 24 districts, interest-free loans up to Rs 1 lakh for livestock owners, and insurance coverage for more than 20 lakh animals under state schemes.

Union Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary said agricultural growth is central to national development and praised Rajasthan's efforts to adopt advanced technologies.

Rajasthan Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena added that GRAM events will also be held in cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Pune to expand outreach.

A short film on GRAM-2026 was screened during the event, which was attended by senior officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the agriculture sector.

- IANS