Gandhinagar: Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat on Monday announced that the state government has provided over Rs 9,610 crore in assistance to more than 33 lakh farmers impacted by last year’s unseasonal rains. Delivering his speech at the Gujarat Assembly during the first day of the budget session, the Governor highlighted several key initiatives and achievements of the state government.
Historic Relief Package for Farmers
Addressing the Assembly, Governor Devvrat said, “This time, the monsoon rains turned into tears for the farmers. In this difficult time of excessive rains, the government has stood as a steadfast ally of the farmers.”
The Governor explained that the state has initiated immediate calculation and disbursement of losses to farmers, ensuring the financial aid reached their bank accounts quickly—a first in Gujarat’s history. He further added that the total relief package announced by the state government exceeds Rs 11,000 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector.
Opposition Raises Loan Waiver Demand
During the Governor’s address, members of the opposition from Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) raised slogans demanding loan waivers for farmers. Some members were heard shouting, “Kheduto nu devu maaf karo (Waive the debt of farmers).”
Employment and Youth Opportunities
Governor Devvrat highlighted efforts to provide employment to the youth, noting that more than 30,000 candidates received appointment letters in the last year. To ensure continuity, the government has prepared a 10-year recruitment calendar, planning to fill over two lakh posts between 2024 and 2033.
Promoting Natural Farming
The Governor emphasized the promotion of natural farming in Gujarat, saying that the Gujarat Prakritik Krushi Vikas Board and the world’s first Natural Farming Science University have been established to train and inspire farmers. So far, around 19 lakh farmers have been trained, and over 8 lakh farmers have adopted natural farming practices.
Water Management Achievements
Gujarat has transitioned from being a water-scarce region to a water-rich state, the Governor noted. The state now relies more on surface water sources—rivers, reservoirs, canals, and lakes—reducing dependence on groundwater for supply systems.
Encroachment Removal Campaign
Governor Devvrat also highlighted the encroachment removal campaign, stating that encumbrances on 1636 survey numbers covering approximately 4,135 hectares have been cleared between April 2025 and December 2025, with an estimated land value of Rs 3,765 crore.
Comprehensive Development Across Sectors
The Governor touched upon multiple initiatives and achievements in sectors including energy, food supply, industry, tourism, health, education, social welfare, tribal development, women and child development, urban and rural development, roads, revenue, sports, science and technology, forest & environment, and law & order.
He concluded by urging Assembly members to continue Gujarat’s developmental journey, stating, “By building an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Gujarat, we contribute to a self-reliant, Viksit Bharat. Gujarat is the growth engine of the country, and it is our collective duty to enhance its strength.”
