Haryana Government Announces Rs 10,000 per Acre Subsidy to Promote Crop Diversification

Key Highlights

• Rs 10,000 per acre subsidy for crop diversification or leaving fields vacant
• Encourages growing less water-intensive crops
• 500 CM PACS centers to support farmers with resources and training
• Rs 133.75 crore compensation to farmers affected by natural disasters
• Registration through the "Meri Fasal Mera Byora Portal" with the necessary documents

In a major step to support farmers and conserve water, the Haryana state government has launched a subsidy scheme offering Rs 10,000 per acre to farmers. This incentive is available to farmers who choose to grow alternative crops instead of water-intensive paddy or even for leaving their fields vacant. The subsidy aims to help reduce the declining groundwater levels and promote sustainable farming practices across the state.

Also Read: Farmers in Rajasthan to Receive Crop Insurance Claims Worth Rs 78 Crore Soon Under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

Objective of the Crop Diversification Scheme

The main goal of the scheme is to encourage crop diversification. By moving away from paddy cultivation, farmers are urged to grow crops like maize, green gram, moth, urad, and other crops that need less water. This approach not only benefits farmers financially but also addresses the critical issue of water conservation.

How Farmers Can Benefit from the Subsidy

Farmers interested in availing of the Rs 10,000 per acre subsidy can register and apply for this benefit. They can also grow Kharif vegetables and fodder, which qualify for the subsidy under this Crop Diversification Scheme.

CM PACS Centers: Empowering Farmers with Resources

To further strengthen rural development, the government is planning to set up 500 high-tech CM PACS (Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies) centers. These centers will serve as one-stop facilities where farmers can access important information on fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides. Additionally, CM PACS will also provide training and financial assistance. In another supportive move, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) and PACS will receive interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 crore to establish warehouses for grain storage.

Compensation and Financial Aid for Farmers

This year, the government has already provided more than Rs 133.75 crore in compensation to 49,000 farmers affected by natural disasters during the Rabi season 2023-24. Moreover, Rs 1.24 lakh crore was disbursed directly into the accounts of 12 lakh farmers for crop purchases through the e-procurement portal at Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Also Read: Now Robots Will Help Farmers: Boosting Production and Profits

Steps for a Water-Efficient Future in Agriculture

In response to irrigation water shortages, the government is encouraging the adoption of crops that require less water. Plans are underway to upgrade the canal infrastructure and renovate 19,716 ponds for micro-irrigation. Additionally, the government is working to secure its water share from the Ravi-Beas rivers and aims to complete the Sutlej-Yamuna Link Canal to enhance water availability for Haryana farmers.

Eligible Crops Under the Crop Diversification Scheme

Farmers can cultivate less water-intensive crops such as:

• Maize
• Green gram
• Moth
• Urad
• Tur
• Guar
• Peanuts
• Soybean
• Sesame
• Castor
• Cotton
• Kharif onion

The scheme also covers Kharif vegetables and fodder, adding flexibility for farmers in crop selection while receiving subsidy benefits.

How to Apply for the Rs 10,000 Subsidy

Haryana farmers interested in this subsidy can apply through the "Meri Fasal Mera Byora Portal". 

Required documents include:

• Aadhar card
• Voter ID card
• Passport-sized photo
• Agricultural land documents
• Residence and income certificates
• Bank account details and email ID

For assistance, farmers can contact their local agriculture department for guidance on the registration process and additional details.

This initiative marks a significant step by the Haryana government towards creating a sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector, balancing financial incentives with long-term water conservation goals.

Also Read: Madhya Pradesh to Begin Purchasing Jowar, Bajra from November 22, 2024, and Paddy from December 2, 2024, at Minimum Support Price (MSP)

CMV360 Says

The Haryana government’s Rs 10,000 per acre subsidy supports sustainable farming and water conservation, empowering farmers to grow alternative crops or leave fields vacant without financial loss. Combined with the creation of CM PACS centers and various farmer support measures, this initiative encourages crop diversification, strengthens rural development, and addresses crucial environmental challenges in agriculture.