Protected Farming Scheme Update: To increase farmers’ income and encourage the adoption of advanced agricultural techniques, the Bihar government has launched the Protected Farming Scheme (State Scheme) 2024-25 for the farmers of the state. The goal of this scheme is to connect farmers with advanced farming methods so they can grow high-quality crops and boost their income. Techniques like mulching, shade nets, and polyhouses are promoted in this scheme to improve the quality and production capacity of agricultural products.
The state government has decided to offer substantial subsidies to farmers under this scheme, making it easier for them to benefit from these modern technologies. Let’s take a detailed look at this news.
Assistance for Farmers Under the Protected Farming Scheme
The Protected Farming Scheme offers various components that provide better farming opportunities for farmers. Key components include Front Line Demonstration (FLD), mulching, shade net, playhouse, and rose cultivation. The goal is to encourage farmers to adopt advanced farming methods and improve their income.
75% Subsidy on Front Line Demonstration (FLD)
The Front Line Demonstration (FLD) component has been launched in 15 districts of the state. Under this scheme, farmers are receiving a 75% subsidy on 2000 square meters of land, which helps them adopt better farming techniques. The districts included in the FLD scheme are Awal, Bhojpur, Buxar, Gopalganj, Jehanabad, Kaimur, Lakhisarai, Madhepura, Nawada, Saran, Sheikhpura, Shivhar, Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Supaul.
Mulching Technique for Water Conservation
Mulching plays an important role in the Protected Farming Scheme and is being implemented across all districts of the state. It helps farmers conserve water and maintain soil fertility. Under this scheme, farmers are receiving a 50% subsidy on mulching, with a cost of Rs 32,000 per hectare. This means farmers will get Rs 16,000 per hectare as subsidy.
Shade Net Technology for Better Crop Growth
Shade net technology is another key feature of the scheme. This technology helps farmers protect their crops from excessive sunlight and rain, resulting in better yields. Farmers are receiving a 50% subsidy on the cost of Rs 710 per square meter, which amounts to Rs 355 per square meter in subsidy.
Additionally, farmers are also receiving a 50% subsidy for growing high-value vegetables under shade nets, leading to better results in vegetable cultivation.
Increase in Farmers’ Income from Polyhouse and Rose Cultivation
Polyhouse technology, which allows farmers to grow crops in a controlled environment, is also part of the Protected Farming Scheme. This enables farmers to grow crops in any season.
The cost of polyhouse installation is Rs 935 per square meter, and farmers are receiving a 50% subsidy, which means they get Rs 467.50 per square meter. Farmers are also receiving a 50% subsidy for cultivating roses in polyhouses or shade nets, which further enhances their income.