Peran Pemerintah Daerah Grobogan dalam Penguatan Sektor Pertanian untuk Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Lokal

The agricultural sector is a strategic pillar of Grobogan Regency's economy; however, this significant potential has not fully improved farmers' welfare. The Farmer Exchange Rate (NTP) decreased from 110.12 in 2023 to 106.85 in 2024, indicating weakening purchasing power due to rising fertilizer and transportation costs without being offset by commodity selling prices. This situation underscores the need for local government policies focused on increasing the NTP above 110 to achieve sustainable farmer welfare. This study aims to analyze the role of the Grobogan Regency Government in strengthening the agricultural sector as the main driver of local community welfare. The research employed a qualitative policy approach with a descriptive case study strategy, using triangulation of interviews, field observations, and review of policy documents such as the Grobogan RPJMD 2021–2026 and the 2024 Agriculture Office annual report. The results show that local government initiatives, such as irrigation network rehabilitation with a budget of IDR 32.5 billion, farmer group empowerment through the Climate Field School Program and Gapoktan strengthening, as well as demonstration plots of superior seed innovations, contributed to a 2.3% increase in rice productivity and a 7% increase in farmers' income. However, challenges remain regarding budget limitations and cross-sector coordination. In conclusion, strengthening policy integration, technological innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration are key to enabling the agricultural sector to genuinely enhance community welfare inclusively and sustainably in Grobogan Regency.