IEP Chandigarh, June 28
In consonance with the commitment of the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann to provide financial assistance in a transparent and hassle-free manner, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare department on Wednesday has transferred Rs. 3.23 crores of cotton seed subsidy into bank accounts of over 17,673 beneficiary farmers.Disclosing this here today, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Mr. Gurmeet Singh Khuddian said that fulfilling the promise of Punjab Government of providing the 33% subsidy on cotton seeds certified by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), the agriculture department has transferred the funds to the farmers through DBT system. The amount has been released under first phase and remaining would be transferred to eligible farmers in the coming days, he added.Reiterating the commitment of the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann for welfare of farmers, the Cabinet Minister said that the high-yielding cotton seeds were made available at cheaper rates to encourage farmers to wean away from water guzzling paddy crop.The agriculture minister said that preventive measures are also being taken to check the attack of White Fly and Pink Bollworms. The concerned officials have been directed to conduct field inspections frequently and sensitise the farmers about taking concrete steps for prevention of this disease.The department has also pressed seven flying squad teams into the service for inter-district checking to ensure supply of quality seeds and pesticides to the farmers. The Agriculture Minister categorically said that a stern action will be taken against those found indulged in selling spurious seeds and pesticides.
