Agriculture Minister T. Siddique said that restoring the self‑respect of farmers and strengthening the agricultural sector will be key objectives for the state government. He highlighted that society often fails to recognise farmers’ contributions and that agriculture is increasingly viewed as a second‑rate occupation, despite being essential for sustaining human life.
Siddique inaugurated the ATMA (Agricultural Technology Management Agency) farmer award ceremony organised by the Peravoor block panchayat.
To encourage a new generation to enter farming, the government has established agricultural clubs in 500 schools across the state and will soon decide on awarding grace marks to students involved in agricultural activities. The ministry also stressed the importance of promoting organic farming to reduce dependence on vegetables from other states and has introduced the Krishi Shakthi scheme for women farmers as part of efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector.
K.A. Jinto of Kanichar panchayat received the best mixed farmer award, while Sheeja Manoj was honoured as the best woman farmer. V. Babu of Kolayad panchayat was named the best Scheduled Tribe farmer, Ajith Peter of Peravoor panchayat won the best dairy farmer award, and T.U. Ajith received the best young farmer accolade.
