Guwahati, 14 June (HS): Assam Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika has directed the Agriculture Department to intensify farmer registration and expand crop diversification across the state. Chairing a review meeting with District Agriculture Officers in Guwahati on Sunday, he announced a special drive to register 5–7 lakh additional farmers within six months.

The minister stressed greater enrolment under PM-KISAN and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, while warning seed and fertiliser suppliers of criminal action, blacklisting and licence cancellation for delays, black-marketing, or supplying substandard products.

Hazarika also called for reducing dependence on traditional paddy cultivation by promoting horticulture, pulses and oil palm production. Emphasising accountability, he instructed officials to maintain regular field visits and ensure effective implementation of agricultural welfare schemes.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash