Mandya: In a major push for agricultural advancement, agriculture minister N Cheluvarayaswamy announced that an Agricultural University has been established in Mandya district to support the overall development of farmers.Cheluvarayaswamy, who is also in charge of the district, called upon the farming community to fully utilise the institution’s resources and opportunities.The minister was speaking after inaugurating a machinery distribution programme under the Hi-tech Harvest Hub and secondary agriculture schemes, organised by the department of agriculture at the university premises.Highlighting the govt’s commitment to modernising agriculture, Cheluvarayaswamy said farm machinery worth over Rs 2,000 crore was distributed to farmers across the state over the past three years. As part of the initiative, more than 400 Hi-tech Harvest Hub machines have already been provided.He noted that substantial subsidies are being extended for setting up Hi-tech Harvest Hubs — Rs 50 lakh for Scheduled Tribes and Rs 40 lakh for the general category — adding the scheme is fully funded by the state govt and is among the first of its kind in the country. Emphasising the importance of mechanisation, the minister said these advanced machines are highly effective in harvesting multiple crops, especially at a time when agricultural labour is becoming increasingly scarce. The initiative is expected to reduce costs and improve efficiency for farmers. Reflecting on other achievements, he stated that crop insurance coverage has significantly expanded under the current govt — from around 12 lakh farmers earlier to over 28 lakh now — with nearly Rs 6,000 crore being disbursed in claims.Srirangapatna MLA and CESC chairman Ramesh Bandisiddegowda said that several farmer-centric schemes introduced by the minister have strengthened the rural economy. He added the establishment of an Agricultural University in Mandya, a predominantly agrarian district, marks a significant milestone in regional development.DC Kumara, ZP CEO KR Nandini, agriculture department joint director Ashok were present. During the event, 13 Hi-tech Harvest Hub machines were distributed to beneficiaries by the minister.
