Yogesh K Porwar
H
averi (Byadgi):Agriculture has grown in country,but farmers have not.So far,they have implemented agriculture-based schemes but now,the focus should be on implementing farmer-centric schemes,opined former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai.
Speaking at the Byadgi Gram Devi Jatra Mahotsav, Dharma Sabha,and felicitation Ceremony,he dwelt in length the significance of village deities and noted that every village traditionally had a presiding deity, and the Seeme (regional) deity was established to ward off evil forces and protect villages from diseases.
The village deity of Byadgi has made the entire region globally recognized.Byadgi farmers are hardworking, and traders have elevated the market to international standards with their efficiency and business acumen.
Growing crops alone is not enough;creating a suitable market for them is essential. Many farmers believe their work is done once they harvest their crops,but their responsibility continues until they secure a proper market.Fortunately,Byadgi has a good market that benefits farmers.
Commenting on the recent drop in chili prices,the MP suggested performing special prayers to the village deity to ensure demand rises and exports increase.
Farmers’hard work must be valued and at the time of independence,not everyone had access to food, but now, despite a population of 1.4 billion,food is available to all.
Agriculture has progressed,but farmers have not.That is why the focus must now shift to farmer-centric schemes.
The former CM shared an anecdote about a young man who was the president of a PLD bank.When elders sought a bride for him, the girl’s family preferred a bank employee over the president because the latter did not have a fixed income.
This reflects the unfortunate reality that farmers struggle to find brides due to their financial instability.The government must address this issue and strengthen farmers’ social standing.
Bommai regretted deteriorating financial situation of farmers, pointing out that earlier, guests were warmly welcomed with water upon arrival,but now people wonder when they will leave.
There is a need to empower farmers so that they can afford their daughters’ marriages.
The MP recalled implementing the Raitha Vidyanidhi scheme during his tenure and stressed the importance of providing subsidies for fertilizers and seeds.
Speaking about the power of a guru’s blessings, he said life is simple, but people complicate it.The difference between civilization and culture,is that what they possess is civilization,but what they are is culture.
Expressing concern about rising violence and crime, he stressed the importance of preserving culture through festivals like this one.People must eliminate negativity within themselves and work toward building a good society where everyone can live happily.
The event was graced by Shirahatti Math’s Sri Fakir Siddarama Mahaswami,Hukkeri Math’s Sri Sadashiva Mahaswami,Jatra Committee President Suresh Gowda Patil, former MLA Virupakshappa Ballari,S.R.Patil, Jayanna Shirur,and several other dignitaries.
