By: Andika Pratama)*
In facing the increasingly complex challenges of food security, the government under the leadership of Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka has set strategic steps that deserve appreciation. The new rice field program is part of the food security blueprint that has been prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture, with the main goal of realizing food self-sufficiency and energy independence for Indonesia. With a target of creating 3 million hectares of new rice fields by 2025, this initiative is not just a plan, but also a real step to ensure food availability in the future.
Minister of Agriculture (Mentan) Andi Amran Sulaiman said the food security blueprint for the Prabowo-Gibran administration has been carefully designed. This plan includes concrete steps that will increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 4.8 percent. Several programs in the blueprint include increasing milk and cattle production, developing strategic export commodities, and implementing a nutritious food yard program. Through this approach, the government not only focuses on food production, but also prioritizes aspects of sustainability and nutritional diversity needed by the community.
The rice field printing program is expected to support food self-sufficiency and reduce Indonesia’s dependence on imported food. This step will strengthen Indonesia’s position as a country that is independent in terms of food, as well as provide a positive contribution to the national economy. In addition, the development of modern agriculture applied in various regions such as Merauke, Central Kalimantan, and South Sumatra will bring about a significant transformation in the way of farming. Amidst the flow of globalization and climate change that have an impact on food security, this program also aims to create stronger and more sustainable resilience.
By implementing modern agricultural technology, productivity is expected to increase by up to 100 percent. The use of tractor machines and seed-spreading drones are real examples of efficient steps that will be taken. This will not only increase yields, but also reduce production costs by up to 50 percent. Of course, this step must be supported by careful planning, as reminded by agricultural observers. The success of this rice field printing program depends on how the plan is implemented properly and considering the experience of previous programs that were unsuccessful.
In addition to the technological aspect, changing the way we view agriculture is also a key factor. The government encourages the understanding that agriculture is a sector that has great potential to boost the economy. By providing support to farmers through training, access to capital, and the latest technology, agricultural productivity can be significantly increased. This will also encourage the younger generation to get involved in the agricultural sector which has so far been considered less attractive.
The rice field printing program also received a positive response from various groups, including experts and politicians. Member of the Expert Council of the Prabowo-Gibran National Campaign Team, Budiman Sudjatmiko stated that Prabowo wants Indonesia to be sovereign and have sustainable food independence. The food self-sufficiency program is one of the priorities of the new government’s agenda under the leadership of Mr. Prabowo Subianto. The courage to print new rice fields is a bold step that reflects the government’s commitment to food independence.
The importance of community involvement cannot be ignored. Food security is not only the responsibility of the government, but also the community as the main actor in food production. Communities must be empowered through training and mentoring programs so that they can utilize modern technology and more efficient farming methods. In this way, they will be better able to face the challenges that arise from climate change and other external factors.
In addition to rice field printing, the free nutritious food program is also an important initiative. The Ministry of Agriculture has motivated the community to utilize their yards as planting land. This is a very strategic step, considering that food security does not only depend on large-scale production, but also on individual contributions in providing nutritious food at the household level. Through this program, the community is invited not only to depend on food supplies from outside, but also to contribute to creating food availability in the surrounding environment.
By mobilizing the community to actively participate in providing food, we not only increase food availability, but also create awareness of the importance of healthy food. This program is very relevant amidst the challenges of malnutrition that are still faced by several community groups. Counseling on the importance of balanced nutrition and how to plant in the yard must also be strengthened so that the community is increasingly educated and motivated to farm.
In facing the challenges of food security, the new rice field printing program promoted by the Prabowo-Gibran government is a new hope for Indonesia. With a clear framework and community support, this step can be a milestone in achieving food self-sufficiency. However, challenges remain, especially in terms of implementation and supervision.
The success of this program requires collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the community. The government needs to establish strategic partnerships with various parties, including private companies, to develop agricultural technology and innovation. Only with good synergy can Indonesia’s food independence ideals be realized. Let’s support this step for a better and more sustainable future for future generations.
Food independence is not just a dream, but a necessity that must be realized through concrete steps. By creating new rice fields, we are not only preparing a better future for the community, but also ensuring that every individual in Indonesia can enjoy quality and nutritious food. Now is the time to unite and work together for sustainable food security.
)* The author is a contributor to Jabartrigger.com