Senior BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar called for the Maharashtra state government to publish a White Paper detailing all agricultural schemes, including the PoCRA (Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojana), to address misinformation among farmers. State Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne responded to this demand during a discussion in the Legislative Assembly initiated under Rule 293. Mungantiwar highlighted the need for transparency, emphasizing the importance of clarifying the implementation and impact of various agricultural initiatives.
Former finance minister Mungantiwar pointed out the persistence of misinformation despite substantial investments in schemes like PoCRA in the agricultural sector. He noted that the state government has introduced significant agricultural schemes between 2014 and 2026, with the highest allocation for agriculture since 1960. Mungantiwar stressed the necessity of dispelling misconceptions and providing accurate information to farmers by making the details of these schemes public through a White Paper.
Mungantiwar also demanded the mandatory presence of the Department Secretary during discussions or responses related to the Agriculture Department in the Assembly. He expressed concerns about the administration’s responsiveness to MLAs and urged for improved communication. Additionally, Mungantiwar humorously remarked on the fast-paced delivery of information by the Agriculture Minister, likening it to a “Bullet Train,” which made it challenging for members to take notes during the session.
In conclusion, Mungantiwar emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure transparency and provide comprehensive information for the benefit of farmers. He called for the publication of complete minutes of discussions to enhance accountability and decision-making processes.
