NewsFirst’s ‘Krishi Devobhav’: Progressive farmers honoured with ‘Bhu-Tapasvi’ Awards

In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude towards the backbone of the nation, NewsFirst, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Agriculture Department, successfully hosted the ‘Krishi Devobhav’ program—an initiative aimed at recognizing, empowering, and supporting farmers. The event was held at The Capital Hotel on Raj Bhavan Road, Bengaluru.

Also read: Krishidevobhava -A tribute to farmers, special event by NewsFirst Kannada

Minister Inaugurates and Lauds the Initiative
Agriculture Minister N. Chaluvarayaswamy inaugurated the event and praised the efforts of NewsFirst for creating a platform that uplifts and educates farmers. “Before we eat a handful of rice, we must remember the farmer,” he said, emphasizing the crucial role of farmers in society. He lauded the channel’s initiative for sharing vital information on agricultural advancements, market trends, and government schemes with the farming community.

Financial Aid and Emotional Moments
In a poignant moment during the program, a woman farmer, Jayalaxmamma, was presented with a cheque of ₹50,000 as financial assistance. Visibly emotional, her response moved the audience and highlighted the program’s real impact on the lives of grassroots farmers.

Recognizing Excellence: Bhu-Tapasvi Awards
One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Bhu-Tapasvi Awards to ten progressive farmers from across the state. These individuals were recognized for their innovation, resilience, and sustainable farming practices. Among the awardees were:

• Mahalingappa Itnal (Bagalkot)
• Sujatha and Rupa (Belgaum)
• Visually impaired farmer Suresh (Mandya)
• Shankar Hanumantha Langati (Belgaum)
• Shaukat Ali Lambunnavar (Dharwad)
• Beerappa Vaggi (Vijayapura)
• Kallappa Pandithappa Neginahal (Belgaum)
• Shashikala Murthy (Davangere)
• Somengada Ganesh Thimmaiah (Kodagu)
• Chidananda Parasappa Pawar (Belgaum)

A Platform for Awareness and Empowerment
The event featured discussions on government schemes, soil fertility management, and market access, offering farmers practical and timely information. Agriculture Department Commissioner Y.S. Patil, NewsFirst MD & CEO S. Ravikumar, and Swash Biotech MD B.S. Shashi Kumar were also present and shared insights on agricultural innovations and future opportunities.

The ‘Krishi Devobhav’ program stood out as a successful effort to honour and uplift Karnataka’s farmers. With emotional moments, valuable knowledge sharing, and statewide recognition, the event reinforced the message that when farmers prosper, society flourishes.