National/ Punjab desk
8 December
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized the need for focused efforts to tackle the economic crisis in agriculture. Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the three-day eighth national conference of a prominent cooperative organization, he stressed the importance of making agriculture prosperous for India’s development.
He stated that Indian farmers are not just food providers but also fuel providers for energy. Highlighting the potential of crop residue, he suggested that fuel production from agricultural waste could be a game changer, especially in Punjab. He also discussed ethanol as an alternative energy source, announcing that around 400 ethanol pumps are being established nationwide by the Indian Oil Company.
The Union Minister underlined that the agricultural sector, along with allied industries, contributes 12 to 14 percent to the country’s development. For India to become self-reliant, he said, the economic conditions of farmers and workers must be improved, which can be achieved through cooperative movements.
During the event, a data portal focused on cooperation was launched, and a souvenir prepared by the cooperative organization was released. Additionally, new leadership was elected for the cooperative body to further its goals.
The Union Minister’s address highlighted the critical role of agriculture and cooperation in fostering India’s self-reliance and raising the living standards of farmers.