Government Positive Towards Grape Growers’ Demands – Deputy CM Ajit Pawar
At the 65th Annual Convention of the Grape Growers’ Association in Pune, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said the state government is positive towards farmers’ demands and will soon take concrete decisions.
Pune – The 65th Annual Convention of the Maharashtra State Grape Growers’ Association was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of the district, Ajit Pawar. The convention witnessed participation from grape farmers, agricultural experts, officers, and representatives of various institutions in large numbers.
Speaking at the event, Ajit Pawar assured that the state government firmly stands with farmers. He said that the demands placed by the association will be seriously reviewed. A meeting will soon be held in Mumbai to discuss these issues, and necessary decisions will be taken after consultations with the central government.
Ajit Pawar said, “The government is continuously working for the welfare of farmers. Our goal is to improve their standard of living, ensure quality education for their children, and provide proper markets for their produce. The government is positive about grape farmers’ demands and concrete steps will be taken in the coming days.”
Agriculture Minister Dattatraya Bharane also addressed the gathering, saying, “As a grape grower myself, I personally understand farmers’ concerns. The agriculture department is constantly striving to ensure better income for farmers. While exports are important, the domestic market is equally significant and must be strengthened.”
Association president Kailas Bhosale placed several key demands before the government, including reforms in the solar pump scheme, revival of the grape crop insurance scheme, reducing stamp duty on farm lease agreements from 50% to 1%, provision of refrigerated vans for grape exports, easing transport regulations, and increasing subsidies for raisin processing centers.
During the event, the souvenir ‘Draksha Vritt’ was released. Krishi Bhushan awardee Suresh Eknath Kalamkar and Chilean grape expert Carlos Flodi were felicitated by the Deputy CM, adding an international dimension to the event.
Later, Ajit Pawar visited the exhibition stalls, which showcased modern agricultural tools, drones for spraying, farm machinery, and other innovations. Farmers enthusiastically responded to the exhibits.
