Akhilesh Yadav Critiques Yogi Adityanath's Aerial Crop Survey Amidst Farmer Discontent
In a recent exchange, Akhilesh Yadav criticized Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's aerial survey of crops, claiming it reflects a lack of courage to confront farmers' issues directly. Adityanath defended his government's initiatives, stating that farmers have become part of the political agenda since 2014, with various schemes benefiting millions. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions between the government and the farming community in Uttar Pradesh, as both leaders present their perspectives on agricultural policies and support for farmers.
| Jun 9, 2025, 13:04 IST
Akhilesh Yadav's Criticism of Aerial Crop Survey
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has expressed his disapproval of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's aerial survey of crops, asserting that Adityanath lacks the courage to confront angry farmers on the ground. The Chief Minister conducted an aerial survey of maize crops on Sunday. Yadav took to social media to comment that those conducting aerial surveys for agriculture are not short on time but rather lack the 'courage' to face the farmers' grievances directly. He questioned, 'Can one really see stray animals from such a height?'
Yogi Adityanath's Defense of Government Initiatives
In response, Yogi Adityanath claimed on Sunday that for the first time since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, farmers have become a part of the government's political agenda, leading to the implementation of various innovative schemes. While addressing an event in Auraiya under the 'Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign', he stated, 'You may have seen for the first time in 2014 when Prime Minister Modi introduced the 'Soil Health Card' system.' He added, 'Previously, only agricultural scientists were aware of the 'Soil Health Card'. Following that, the Prime Minister launched the agricultural irrigation scheme and the Prime Minister's Crop Insurance Scheme. Today, 12 crore farmers are benefiting from the Prime Minister's Kisan Samman Nidhi.'
Financial Support for Farmers
Adityanath further mentioned, 'In Uttar Pradesh alone, 2.86 crore farmers have received ₹85,000 crore in their accounts so far.' He highlighted that in 2017, the government first waived ₹36,000 crore in loans for 86 lakh farmers. Additionally, 23 lakh hectares of land have been provided with enhanced irrigation facilities. The Chief Minister announced the establishment of procurement centers for maize, assuring Auraiya farmers that they will soon announce a minimum support price for the crop. He emphasized that the 'double engine' government at both the center and state levels has taken the initiative to send agricultural scientists from universities and ICAR to the fields.