Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday personally operated a tiller to plough a field at his private residence in Nagla Tarai in Khatima and applied natural cow dung manure to the soil, conveying a message in support of organic and traditional farming practices. His mother, Bishna Devi, was also present during the activity.While working in the field, the Chief Minister highlighted the significance of farmers’ hard work and the country’s rich agricultural traditions. He said that farming is not merely a means of livelihood but the very soul of Indian culture and the rural economy. He emphasised that the integration of modern technology with traditional and natural farming methods can make agriculture more prosperous and sustainable, according to a release.The Chief Minister stated that natural practices, such as the use of cow dung manure, not only enhance soil fertility but also play a crucial role in environmental conservation. He urged farmers to reduce their dependence on chemical fertilisers and adopt organic and natural farming techniques.CM Dhami added that the state government is continuously working to increase farmers’ incomes, modernise agriculture, and promote organic products.The Uttarakhand CM further said that the state’s identity is deeply rooted in agriculture, rural culture, and nature. The state government is providing assistance to farmers through various schemes aimed at promoting traditional farming, horticulture, natural agriculture, and local products. He also stressed that connecting the younger generation with farming and rural development is the need of the hour.CM Dhami also participated in a cleanliness drive and cleaned the premises of Purnagiri Temple in the Nagla Tarai area of Khatima.The Chief Minister also planted saplings at the temple premises.Earlier on Sunday, CM Dhami participated in an interactive session with intellectuals, where he lauded the intellectual community in the state as “opinion makers.” The programme commenced with the Chief Minister lighting a ceremonial lamp.Experts from various fields, including education, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, literature, industry and spirituality, shared their views and suggestions during the event.Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Uttarakhand is not only Devbhoomi (the Land of Gods) but also a land of knowledge, consciousness and rich cultural heritage.He emphasised that the intellectual community is one of the most important forces in guiding society and the nation, as its ideas help shape the future of coming generations. He described intellectuals as “opinion makers” whose suggestions can serve as a strong foundation for the state’s development.
