Madhya Pradesh government is providing financial assistance to farmers for crop diversification scheme

The Madhya Pradesh government has launched the Crop Diversification Promotion Scheme to emphasize natural farming. This scheme encourages the cultivation of market-driven and climate-appropriate crops, replacing traditional wheat and rice crops.

Three-Year Crop Diversification Scheme Initiated:

Starting from the current fiscal year (2022-23), the Madhya Pradesh government has introduced a three-year crop diversification scheme aimed at promoting demand-based crop diversification for the economic welfare of farmers. The state has begun selecting areas for natural farming, with the Cabinet Committee for Industrial Promotion (CCIP) approving two proposals for natural farming. Madhya Pradesh is advancing rapidly in crop diversification compared to other states, and increased farmer interest will further promote natural farming.

Focus on Alternative Crops:

The state government is emphasizing the cultivation of alternative crops through natural farming techniques, moving away from the primary crops of wheat and rice. Special attention is given to ensure that the soybean crop area does not decrease in favor of rice and wheat cultivation. According to a government note, the state’s kharif season relies on rice and soybean, while the rabi season primarily focuses on wheat.

Over 80% Wheat or Rice Cultivation in 24 Districts: During the kharif season, rice is cultivated on 3.404 million hectares out of the total 14.8 million hectares. In 24 districts of the state, over 80% of the cultivable area is dedicated to either wheat or rice.

Encouraging Market and Export Demand-Based Crops: Under the Crop Diversification Promotion Scheme, farmers will be encouraged to grow crop varieties that are not dependent on government procurement at MSP but are driven by market and export demand. This scheme will ensure a direct link between farmers and the market, with a guaranteed purchase of the farmers' produce. Various companies, farms, institutions, and exporters will ensure buy-back arrangements for the farmers. Government support will be provided for human resources, training, inputs, and other necessary expenses.