Union minister lauds Barak Valley's unique agro-forest wealth

Silchar: Union minister of state for consumer affairs, food and public distribution Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya expressed admiration for the Barak Valley's unique agricultural and forest resources during her three-day visit to Hailakandi district. Emphasising the region's untapped potential, the minister called for strategic initiatives to harness local resources for the economic upliftment of the poor.

"Such unique agricultural and forest resources are not found anywhere else in the world. We must tap into their potential for the economic benefit of the poor," Bambhaniya said during a review meeting held at the district commissioner's conference hall on Monday evening.

Highlighting the district's natural wealth — ranging from bamboo and betel nut to paddy fields and tea gardens — she urged officials to design sustainable projects that could convert these assets into viable economic opportunities for local communities.

The meeting, attended by key departmental heads, presented progress across several sectors under central and state govt schemes, especially in agriculture, education, banking, and healthcare sectors. It was revealed that 72,607 of the district's 86,000 farmers have benefited from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. Efforts are underway to onboard the remaining farmers, with challenges primarily arising from incomplete documentation and bank account linkages.

Furthermore, over 85% of the district's farmers are now enrolled under the crop insurance scheme, and more than 28,000 soil health cards have been issued following detailed soil testing initiatives — an effort praised by the minister for promoting informed farming practices.

Despite this progress, banking inclusion remains a concern. According to the lead bank, only 305 of the district's 598 villages currently have access to banking services. Connectivity challenges in remote areas are impeding further expansion, though steps are being taken to bridge this gap.

On Tuesday, the Union minister visited several developmental project sites to assess on-ground implementation. She is scheduled to participate in additional public programmes on Wednesday before concluding her visit.

Officials from various departments assured the Minister of their commitment to ensuring that the benefits of central and state schemes reach every eligible individual, particularly in remote and underserved areas.