The 75th Republic Day Parade unfolded in grandeur at Kartavya Path, Delhi on 26^th January 2024. This year, the Government of India extended special invitations to individuals from diverse sectors, over 15,000 in number, showcasing nation's progress and unity to witness the momentous parade. In a significant addition to the esteemed guest list, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) extended invitations to over 1500 farmers, who are beneficiaries of central government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana to witness the parade. In addition, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW)also organised a 2-day program and training for their special invitees on 25^th and 26^th January 2024.

For an enriched experience, a comprehensive training session on key government schemes and initiatives such as Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, Per Drop More Crop, PMFBY etc and a field visit to the renowned fields of PUSA Campus were organized for the farmers on 25^th January 2024. The program commenced with an inaugural ceremony graced by the presence of Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda who was joined by MoS Sushri Shobha Karandlaje. The dignitaries highlighted the context of the training session, and the government's unwavering commitment and continuous support towards their economic well-being and welfare.

On January 26th, the special invitees of DA&FW witnessed the spectacular parade at Kartavya Path. After the parade, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda interacted with the farmers at PUSA. Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, and Shri Kailash Choudhary, Secretary-DARE and Director-General, ICAR, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Additional Secretary Smt. Maninder Kaur Dwivedi and Smt. Shubha Thakur were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister emphasized the pivotal role farmers’ play in shaping the nation. He highlighted key achievements, including a fivefold increase in the agriculture budget, record-breaking food grain and horticulture production, and significant MSP hikes. Government initiatives such as PM-KISAN, PMFBY, and schemes promoting organic farming underscored the unwavering commitment to farmers' welfare. The Minister also spotlighted efforts in credit accessibility, the Soil Health Card Scheme, and Natural Farming, showcasing remarkable strides in enhancing the agricultural landscape.

The event concluded with farmers having the opportunity to participate in a group photo session alongside Ministers and dignitaries, followed by a curated lunch. The venue featured dedicated selfie stands and banners showcasing MoA&FW’s schemes and initiatives, serving as noteworthy highlights during the two-day celebration. Farmers actively participated at the designated stands, expressing their delight as they posed for photographs.

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SK/SM