The Bharatiya Krishik Samaj (United), led by Sidagouda Modagi, along with various organizations, organized a one-day symposium on millets and cereals. The event aimed to address the issue of hunger and malnutrition in the state and urged the government to include millet and other cereals in the Anna Bhagya scheme. Subject experts Prakash Kammaradi and GV Sundar emphasized the importance of incorporating these nutritious grains into the ration scheme to combat malnutrition.
During the symposium held at the Kannada Sahitya Bhavan in Belagavi, Prakash Kammaradi, an agricultural economist, highlighted the significance of implementing the Anna Bhagya scheme. He stressed that malnutrition is a major concern in the country and emphasized the need for Karnataka to overcome this issue. Kammaradi explained that despite the controversies surrounding the ration scheme, it presents an opportunity for the Siddaramaiah government to fight hunger and malnutrition by including cereals and supporting farmers.
Kammaradi also pointed out that the state purchases less paddy, and most of the rice distributed under the ration scheme is grown in other states. To address this, the Agricultural Prices Commission recommended including rain-fed paddy rice, millet, and maize, as these crops are rich in nutrients. Kammaradi further suggested that the government should aim to distribute 5 kg of Ragi per person in South Karnataka, 5 kg of jowar or maize in North Karnataka, and rain-sheltered paddy rice or Kuchalakki in the Malnad and coastal regions. He emphasized the need to focus on increasing cereal production in the state.
GV Sundar, an agricultural economist, echoed Kammaradi’s sentiments. He stated that economic policies favoring the rich have left the poor behind, while farmers continue to face challenges. Sundar called on the central government to address these issues and work towards improving the lives of rural communities.
Siddanagouda Patil, a farmer leader, highlighted the economic backwardness faced by farmers. He emphasized the importance of agriculture in Indian culture and suggested that cereal crop trials should instill hope rather than fear in farmers’ minds.
The symposium was presided over by Sharada Gopal, leader of Jagrut Mahila Vedike. The event saw the presence of Sidagouda Modagi, president of Bharatiya Krishik Samaj (United), as well as GV Kulkarni, Shankar Dhavali, and social worker Shivaji Kaganikar.
The discussions during the symposium shed light on the urgent need to tackle hunger and malnutrition in Karnataka. The inclusion of millets and cereals in the Anna Bhagya scheme could play a crucial role in addressing these issues. The experts emphasized the importance of increasing cereal production in the state and providing nutritious grains to the population. With these recommendations, the government has an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of its citizens and support the agricultural sector.
