Pravin Darekar Urges Poladpur Youth to Choose Agriculture Over Mumbai Migration
BJP legislator Pravin Darekar has urged rural youth to stay in their villages instead of migrating to Mumbai, calling on them to pursue farming and agro-processing businesses to build sustainable livelihoods. He made the remarks while addressing a farmers' meet held at the Captain Vikramrao More Hall in Poladpur taluka.
The event was organised by the Kalkai Mata Krida Va Samajik Sanstha. During the programme, agricultural kits were distributed to local farmers, while ASHA workers received medical kits supplied through Doctors For You.
Speaking at the gathering, Darekar expressed disappointment that while several talukas across Maharashtra had seen development and financial prosperity among farmers, his native Poladpur had lagged behind. He told attendees that residents must build their own future rather than waiting for others to do it for them.
Pointing to successful examples of agricultural innovators and entrepreneurs, Darekar advised youth to form teams and undertake large-scale farming projects. He assured that financial and government support would be provided to farmers aiming to expand operations. He cited local farmer Amar Kadam, who cultivates one acre of land, offering backing if Kadam expanded his cultivation to 25 to 50 acres.
Darekar also highlighted the necessity of soil testing and organic methods, referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's focus on soil health. He cautioned that excessive chemical use has harmed both soil condition and human health, making organic manure and chemical-free crops essential for long-term sustainability.
Darekar cautioned that without local economic opportunities, upcoming generations would continue to face the same struggles. He appealed to individuals who had relocated to urban centres to help develop their native areas, stating that personal success in Mumbai held little value if one's native village and its farmers remained backward.
Additionally, Darekar spoke about the 'Namo Sahakar Taxi' initiative in Mumbai. Under this programme, roughly 2,000 drivers will be provided taxis through the Devdatt Transport and Tourism Cooperative Society as partners sharing profits. He noted that around 2,500 drivers have registered and operations are set to start within a fortnight.
The event in Poladpur was attended by numerous farmers, ASHA workers, public representatives, government officials, and functionaries from both the BJP and Shiv Sena.
