The Congress party has raised serious concerns over the closure of 199 district agro-meteorological units that provided crucial weather advisory services to farmers at the block level. The party alleges that NITI Aayog misrepresented the role of these units to justify their shutdown and the push towards privatization. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh highlighted the issue, criticizing the think-tank for its actions and accusing it of failing to protect farmers’ interests.
BulletsIn
- Congress alleges the closure of 199 district agro-meteorological units that offered free weather advisory services to farmers.
- The shutdown reportedly occurred in March, with NITI Aayog accused of misrepresenting the units’ roles.
- Congress MP Jairam Ramesh shared a media report on X, bringing attention to the issue.
- The closed units provided essential information on sowing, fertilizer use, harvesting, and crop storage.
- Experts estimate the annual budget for these units was Rs 45 crore, while the benefits amounted to Rs 15,000 crore.
- The closure faced opposition from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and key stakeholders, including the Association of Agrometeorologists.
- RTI documents revealed NITI Aayog suggested privatizing and monetizing the district agromet services.
- Ramesh accused NITI Aayog of misleading the public by claiming that data automation made the units redundant.
- The agro-meteorological staff played a crucial role in customizing forecasts for local use and offering tailored advisories.
- Ramesh criticized NITI Aayog for being a “drumbeater” for the government and failing to protect farmers’ interests.
