Assam Minister for Agriculture, Irrigation and Parliamentary Affairs, Pijush Hazarika on Wednesday chaired a crucial review meeting with District Agriculture Officers (DAOs) at Assam Administrative Staff College to assess the overall progress of agricultural initiatives and address field-level bottlenecks across the state.
Taking stock of the ongoing farmer registration process, Minister Hazarika emphasised the government’s resolve to bring all genuine cultivators under the coverage of official schemes.
He noted that while Mission Basundhara 4.0 will play a pivotal role in securing land rights for farmers, immediate measures must be taken to register those cultivating land under the Forest Rights Act as well as government lands. Furthermore, he directed officials to examine the feasibility of bringing tenant farmers under the registration umbrella through a dedicated ‘Tenant Model’.
Addressing delays in districts with comparatively lower registration figures, the Minister pulled up concerned officers and reviewed the causes behind the slow progress under the ‘Encroacher Model’. Issuing a stern warning, Minister Hazarika stated, “Zero tolerance will be maintained regarding any negligence in farmer registration. Strict administrative action will be initiated against any official found lax in performing their duties.”
The review meeting also focused on the expansion of Oil Palm cultivation under the National Edible Oil Mission.
Minister Hazarika urged officials to actively reach out to farmers, dispel myths or misinformation surrounding Oil Palm, and present authentic data regarding its long-term economic benefits.
Additionally, the meeting evaluated the present status and production potential of high-value cash crops such as makhana, maize, and pulses across different districts.
Reiterating the administration’s core priority, Minister Hazarika assured that the state government remains fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the farming community—from seamless registration to ensuring market access and multiplying farm income.