Maharashtra government promotes group farming for cost efficiency

Pune: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state government will soon introduce a new policy for group farming. He spoke at an event hosted by Paani Foundation in Balewadi. This move aims to support farmers and enhance investment in agriculture. Fadnavis noted that a previous group farming policy from 2016 did not gain traction after 2021. He explained that group farming helps farmers reduce production costs and increase their output. The government plans to align various schemes for farmers to support group farming and provide financial assistance. Actor Amir Khan, co-founder of Paani Foundation, also announced that their Farmer Cup initiative will expand statewide next year. Currently, it is organized only in some areas, but the decision for a broader reach was made at the CM's request. A report from KPMG revealed that group farming lowers production costs by Rs 16,500 per acre. It also significantly increased crop yields, with soybean production up by 83%, maize by 109%, and cotton by 72%. Fadnavis emphasized the need for investment in agriculture beyond mere relief measures. He mentioned that the government invests around Rs 10,000 to Rs 10,500 crore annually to assist farmers with crop damage. However, this funding does not promote long-term investment in agriculture. The state aims to boost capital expenditure through new schemes, such as the Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojana. Fadnavis also highlighted the challenges faced by small landholding farmers, who find mechanized farming out of reach. Over one lakh employees in the state's agriculture and water resources departments will support the Farmer Cup initiative. In a related note, Fadnavis assured farmers that they will receive daytime electricity by December 2026. The government is working on converting power feeders to solar energy, with plans to generate 36,000 megawatts before the deadline. Lastly, the CM addressed the situation in Nagpur, stating that it is peaceful and there is no need for a curfew. The police have lifted curfews in various areas, and residents of all backgrounds are living harmoniously.