The underdeveloped state of Gujarat in northwestern India has much to gain from agricultural giant John Deere's interests in the subcontinent, which includes helping the state's low-income farmers develop skills so their farming, crop and agricultural operations are more productive, according to a published report.
The quality of life for as many as 50,000 Indian families stands to benefit from the five-year deal between Deere and the Gujarat Tribal Development Department. The thrust of the effort in the Northwest India state is ushering in the modern benefits of agricultural technology.
"This is a shining example of a program that will help empower and provide economic wealth to our marginalized farmers and tribal brethren," said Narendra Modi, chief minister of Gujarat.
He said the public-private partnership between the two partners sets a precedent. He also stated his belief that the partnership will prove to be enormously productive and beneficial to all involved. The government will enable farmers to develop skills like testing soil and micro-irrigation.
"Deere supports developmental projects such as this one in India to help farmers increase their chance for prosperity and improve their quality of life," according to prepared remarks from Samuel Allen, the Deere chairman and chief executive officer.