RAISEN, Apr 11: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the government is acting on the ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ slogan by promoting millet in the armed forces to strengthen farmers economically.
Former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri had coined the iconic slogan in 1965 during the Indo-Pak war amid a food crisis with the aim of boosting the morale of soldiers (jawan) and motivate farmers (kisan) to increase production. The slogan soon became a symbol of self-reliance.
Addressing the three-day ‘Unnat Krishi Mahotsav’ here as chief guest, Singh said, “Flours made from jowar, bajra and ragi have been introduced in the armed forces. By our efforts we are again acting upon the slogan ‘Jai Jawan-Jai Kisan’.” He said the government has decided to procure fruits and vegetables grown through organic farming from farmers living around cantonment areas, which has resulted in a significant rise in their income in recent months.
“The initiative also encourages organic farming. This means produce grown by you through organic methods, without chemical fertilisers, will directly reach our soldiers’ plates. You will benefit as your produce will fetch better prices,” Singh said.
He said agriculture holds vast potential and youth participation will increase innovation, raise farmers’ income and strengthen the country’s economy. “Youth have knowledge, energy and the capacity for innovation, which need to be directed towards agriculture,” said Singh, who was Union minister for agriculture in 2003-2004 in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.
Farming can be made smart through drones, sensors and mobile technology, Singh said while asserting that the government remains committed to providing all possible support so that farming becomes a matter of pride and farmers live with dignity and honour.
“Youth in the country are performing excellently across sectors and their contribution in technology and innovation is commendable. It is a matter of pride that Indian youth are establishing their identity at the global level,” the senior BJP leader asserted.
Referring to the journey from farm to market, Singh said a farmer does not just produce food but sustains the entire economy. “He generates employment. He drives industry. He supports services,” Singh said. (Agencies)
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