*PM Modi releases Rs 22,000 crore to 9.8 crore farmers under PM KISAN scheme*
Bhagalpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today shared his vision of ensuring that at least one product grown by Indian farmers is featured in every international kitchen. Addressing a public meeting in Bhagalpur, the Prime Minister emphasized that his government is dedicated to promoting the export, processing, and marketing of agricultural products to make this dream a reality.
The Prime Minister was in Bhagalpur to release the 19th installment of the PM KISAN scheme, providing financial assistance of 22,700 crore rupees to 9.8 crore farmers across the country. Modi highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to promote agricultural products such as Makhana. He stated that the creation of a Makhana Board would help increase exports, support growers in production, and improve value addition and marketing.
Modi also noted that Eastern India, particularly Bihar, has significant potential in food processing. As part of the initiative, the National Institute of Food Technology Management (NIFTM) will be established in Bihar. He expressed confidence that Bihar can play a leading role in the sector, noting that the rise of India would be driven by the East, with Bihar serving as a key pillar in this transformation.
During his visit, the Prime Minister also announced the establishment of three new Centres of Excellence (CoE) in Bihar, located in Bhagalpur, Munger, and Buxar, aimed at promoting the cultivation and processing of mango, tomato, onion, and potato.
In addition, Modi announced the formation of the 10,000th Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), which has the potential to significantly enhance farmers’ incomes. To date, 30 lakh farmers have joined FPOs across the nation, with 40 percent of members being women, contributing to business ventures worth thousands of crores.
PM Modi also addressed concerns raised by opposition parties regarding government initiatives, particularly the Mahakumbh. He accused Congress and the RJD of maligning efforts for the preservation of heritage, asserting that the people would not forgive them for their criticism. The Prime Minister further revealed plans to establish another central university in Vikramshila, Bhagalpur, alongside the already operational Nalanda University, to boost educational development in the region.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated several development projects in Bihar, including those in agriculture, railway connectivity, and other sectors, with a total investment of over 700 crore rupees.
