The state Agriculture Department in Maharashtra has established a Task Force to tackle the issue of farmer suicides. This Task Force, led by Rafique Naikwadi, aims to address mental health, social issues, economic challenges, and climate change-related disasters affecting farmers. The initiative comes ahead of the state legislature’s Budget Session starting on February 23.
The Task Force comprises officials from various departments and experts like Dr. Vinayak Hegana and Srishti Doijad. It will focus on providing technical guidance, financial assistance, support systems, and psychological counseling to farmers facing crises. The department’s ‘Four-Point Integrated Approach’ emphasizes technology, finance, and mental health support for farmers.
Agriculture Commissioner Suraj Mandhare highlighted the need to empower farmers beyond just offering compensation after tragedies. The Task Force’s mandate includes studying factors leading to farmer suicides, addressing climate change impacts on agriculture, and formulating suicide prevention strategies. It will also work on disaster preparedness, response, rehabilitation, and coordination with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Rafique Naikwadi, Chairman of the Task Force, emphasized the adoption of modern measures tailored to current needs based on previous committee reports. Dr. Vinayak Hegana, from the ‘Shivar Foundation,’ mentioned successful suicide prevention efforts through initiatives like ‘Shivar Sansad’ and ‘Shivar Helpline.’ The Task Force aims to develop sustainable policies for farmers’ well-being and scientific growth.
