9785 Views
Updated On:
The subsidy for onion storage houses empowers farmers to preserve produce, ensuring fair prices and economic resilience in agriculture.
To assist farmers in securing fair prices for their crops and support their income, the government has announced a subsidy scheme for the construction of storage houses, with a special emphasis on onion storage. This initiative comes in response to the challenges faced by farmers due to fluctuating onion prices in the market. Farmers in need can avail a subsidy of Rs 4.50 lakh to construct onion storage houses or warehouses, aiming to empower them economically.
The primary objective behind subsidizing onion storage houses is to ensure that farmers receive favorable prices for their produce of onions. By constructing these storage facilities, farmers gain the ability to preserve their onions for longer durations, thereby avoiding distress sales at low prices. Onions are perishable commodities prone to spoilage, but with proper storage infrastructure, farmers can maintain their quality and sell them at opportune moments for better profits. Additionally, farmers can generate supplementary income by offering storage facilities to fellow farmers for rent.
Under this scheme facilitated by the Horticulture Department, farmers will receive financial aid for constructing onion storage houses. The estimated cost for a model onion storage structure with a capacity of 50 metric tons is set at Rs 6 lakh. Farmers will be subsidized 75 percent of this cost, amounting to Rs 4.50 lakh. Consequently, farmers only need to contribute 25 percent of the total cost from their funds.
After the construction of the storage structure is completed and verified by the Assistant Director of Horticulture in the respective district, the subsidy amount will be disbursed. A designated model for the onion storage structure, subject to approval by the competent authority, will be provided by the Horticulture Directorate. Farmers can access the design blueprint from the departmental online portal.
Also Read: Govt Buys 1,650 Tonnes of Onions at These Prices from Farmers for Export after 3 Months Pause
The subsidy scheme is operational in 23 districts of Bihar, namely Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur, Lakhisarai, Jehanabad, Nawada, Saran, Sheikhpura, Siwan, Aurangabad, Banka, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Khagaria, Madhubani, Munger, Nalanda, Patna, Purnia, Rohtas, Samastipur, and Vaishali. Farmers from these districts are eligible to apply for the scheme.
Farmers from the above-mentioned districts can apply online for the construction of onion storage houses through the official website horticulture.bihar.gov.in. Applicants must possess a 13-digit DBT number for registration. Those lacking a DBT number can obtain one by registering at dbtagriculture.bihar.gov.in before applying. For further inquiries and assistance, farmers can reach out to the Assistant Director of their respective districts.
By leveraging these resources and subsidies, farmers can enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the stability of the agricultural sector.
Also Read: Good News for Farmers: Kharif Crop Loan Deadline Extended
The subsidy initiative for onion storage houses presents a significant opportunity for farmers to stabilize their income and mitigate market fluctuations. By providing accessible support and incentives, the government empowers farmers to preserve their produce effectively, ensuring fair prices and sustained economic resilience within the agricultural community.