The government is implementing a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing farmers’ incomes. In addition to traditional farming, these initiatives also encourage farmers to explore alternative income-generating activities. The government is actively promoting horticulture and offering subsidies to facilitate farmers’ participation in this sector.
In this context, both the Uttar Pradesh government and the Government of India have launched the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, which includes subsidies for the cultivation of dragon fruit and strawberries.
Encouragement for Farmers
As reported by Harishankar Ram, the Horticulture Officer of Azamgarh District, the government is providing financial support to encourage farmers to cultivate strawberries and dragon fruit. Under this initiative, farmers can receive subsidies of up to 160,000 rupees for cultivating one hectare of dragon fruit.
He noted that the total cost for cultivating dragon fruit on one hectare is between 600,000 to 700,000 rupees. Previously, the government offered an incentive of 30,000 rupees per hectare, which has now been significantly increased to 160,000 rupees per hectare.
Scheme Benefits
To benefit from this scheme, farmers must register on the Uttar Pradesh Horticulture Department’s website. Required documents include an Aadhar card, Khasra-Khatauni, bank passbook, and mobile number. After registration, farmers need to submit the necessary documents to the District Agriculture Officer’s office. The grant will be disbursed in two installments, contingent upon an inspection of the field and the condition of the plants by agriculture officers. The application website is uphorticulture.gov.in.