Fig Farming: Farmers to Get 40% Subsidy on Fig Cultivation in Bihar

Key Highlights

• 40% subsidy on fig cultivation costs in Bihar.
• The scheme covers up to 4 hectares per farmer.
• The subsidy is paid in 3 installments over 3 years.
• Available to land-owning farmers with proper documents.
• Apply online through the Bihar Horticulture Department’s website.

Farmers in Bihar are set to benefit from a new government program aimed at promoting fig (anjeer) cultivation. Under the "Fig Fruit Development Scheme," the state government will provide a 40% subsidy on the cost of planting fig saplings. This initiative aims to boost income for farmers and encourage the growth of fig farming, which thrives in harsh climates and is considered an ideal horticultural crop for the region.

Also Read: Rs. 15,000 Subsidy on Coriander and Fenugreek Cultivation in Bihar: Here's How to Apply

Government Support for Fig Cultivation

The Bihar government, through its Agriculture and Horticulture Departments, is encouraging the farmers to cultivate figs, along with other crops like plums, dates, and pomegranates. These crops are known for their suitability in tough climatic conditions and have also proven to be quite profitable for farmers.

The Fig Fruit Development Scheme is designed to help farmers expand fig cultivation, ensuring they have the financial support needed to do so. The government hopes that this program will double the income of participating farmers.

40% Subsidy on Fig Farming Costs

According to the Bihar State Agriculture Department, farmers will receive a subsidy of 40% under the Fig Development Scheme. The total cost of cultivating figs on one hectare of land is estimated at ₹1.25 lakh, and farmers will get a subsidy of ₹50,000 per hectare.

This subsidy will be provided in three installments:

1. Year 1: ₹30,000
2. Year 2: ₹10,000
3. Year 3: ₹10,000

Farmers can apply for this subsidy for a minimum of 0.1 hectares (0.25 acres) and a maximum of 4 hectares (10 acres) of fig cultivation. The Horticulture Department estimates that 625 fig plants can be grown on one hectare, with a planting distance of 4 meters between each plant.

Also Read: Bihar's Rooftop Gardening Scheme 2024-25: Rs 7500 Subsidy for Growing Fruits, Flowers, and Vegetables

Who Can Apply?

The scheme is available to land-owning farmers (Raiyat farmers) in Bihar. Farmers must provide land ownership documents or revenue receipts when applying. If there is any confusion regarding the land ownership, a genealogy certificate will also be required.

The subsidy payments will be made directly to farmers through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, ensuring timely and transparent financial support. The scheme is designed to ensure equal participation across different categories, with 78.56% for general category farmers, 20% for Scheduled Castes, and 1.44% for Scheduled Tribes. Additionally, 30% of the beneficiaries will be women farmers.

How to Apply for the Subsidy

Farmers who wish to benefit from the Fig Fruit Development Scheme need to apply online. Here’s how:

1. Visit the official website: Go to the Bihar Horticulture Department’s website at horticulture.bihar.gov.in.
2. Register: Farmers must first register with the Horticulture Department.
3. Apply for the scheme: Once registered, farmers can apply for the Fig Fruit Development Scheme by selecting the "Fruit Related Scheme (2024-25)" option and then choosing the Fig Development Scheme.
4. Submit required documents: Ensure you have your land papers and Aadhaar card ready for submission.

This scheme will be available on a "first come, first served" basis, so interested farmers are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For more information, farmers can also contact their district Agriculture or Horticulture Department. This government initiative opens up new possibilities for fig farming in Bihar, helping farmers increase their income while boosting agricultural production in the state.

Also Read: Satyukt Analytics Wins Smart Farm Grant for Sugarcane Harvesting Technology

CMV360 Says

The Bihar government's Fig Fruit Development Scheme offers farmers a 40% subsidy to promote fig cultivation, enhancing income and agricultural growth. By supporting fig farming, which thrives in harsh climates, the initiative provides financial assistance, helping farmers secure a more prosperous and sustainable future in horticulture.