The organizations like KisanKraft are of the view that overall Budget 2018 is in right direction. They appreciate the efforts of the government for refactoring MSP, idea of gramin rural market agencies, extension of Kisan credit to fisheries and for animal husbandry. They say that tt’s definitely a pro-agriculture budget this time. However, with respect to the MSP, they say that government have to clarify the definition of cost of production, and if it is in line with Directorate of Economics and Statistics definition from A1 to C2. Here is the view of Ravindra Agrawal, MD and Promoter of KisanKraft.
We are very happy that the government has kept fiscal discipline intact and continued structural reforms for long term benefits. We welcome the overall budget 2018-19 and appreciate the efforts of the government for refactoring MSP, idea of gramin rural market agencies, extension of Kisan credit to fisheries and for animal husbandry etc. It’s definitely a pro-agriculture budget this time. The move of encouraging organizations engaged in farm produce business is very positive, and will in turn aide farmers.
However, with respect to the MSP government have to clarify the definition of cost of production, and if it is in line with Directorate of Economics and Statistics definition from A1 to C2. We strongly believe that government will definitely come with ways of increasing farmer’s retail income as a higher percent of final retail value. Additionally, there was no mention of reduction in GST for farm inputs like pesticide, fertilizers, fuel and farm mechanization products etc.
Budget 2018 is pro-agriculture
No details were given on the measures taken for agricultural infrastructure like dams, cannals and irrigation infrastructure to reduce farmers’ dependence on rains. We welcome government’s measure taken for micro irrigation but attention is required on traditional irrigation system as well. Lastly, the focus also should be laid on educating the farmers with the better package of practices, technological advancements through Panchayat level on-site education system.
With continued focus on agriculture, government will surely achieve its goal of doubling farmer’s income in near future. We highly appreciate government’s emphasis on generating higher incomes for farmers, by helping them produce more with lesser costs involved.
