Protected farming scheme, farmers to receive 50, 75% subsidy, apply now

The online application process for the Protected Farming Scheme (State Scheme) 2024–25 has commenced. This scheme offers various beneficial components for farmers, connecting them with modern farming techniques. The primary goal of the scheme is to adopt new and sustainable methods in agriculture, thereby increasing farmers' income. Let’s delve into the key features of this scheme.

Front Line Demonstration (FLD):

The front-line demonstration (FLD) component will be implemented in 15 districts of the state: Arwal, Bhojpur, Buxar, Gopalganj, Jehanabad, Kaimur, Lakhisarai, Madhepura, Nawada, Saran, Sheikhpura, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Supaul. Under this component, 75% subsidy will be provided to tenant farmers on the unit cost for 2,000 square meters. The objective is to familiarize farmers with modern farming techniques and enhance their production capacity.

Mulching: Reducing Costs and Increasing Profits:

Through mulching technology, farmers can reduce production costs and increase profits. This component will be implemented across all districts of the state. Under the scheme, a subsidy of 50%, amounting to ₹16,000 per hectare, will be provided on a unit cost of ₹32,000 per hectare for mulching. Mulching not only aids in water conservation but also improves soil quality.

Shade Net: High-Quality Farming:

Shade net farming offers farmers the opportunity to cultivate advanced varieties of vegetables and flowers. This component will also be implemented across all districts of the state. The unit cost of the shade net is set at₹710 per square meter, with a 50% subsidy, amounting to₹355 per square meter, provided to farmers. The primary aim of shade net farming is to help farmers earn higher profits through advanced technology.

High-value vegetable farming in Shade Net:

Farmers will receive special benefits for cultivating vegetables under shade nets. Under this scheme, a 50% subsidy, amounting to 70 per square meter, will be provided on a unit cost of 140 per square meter. This initiative will help farmers produce higher yields and better-quality vegetables.

Polyhouse: A New Era of High-Tech Farming: Polyhouses are being introduced to connect farmers with modern agricultural technology. The polyhouse component will be implemented in seven districts: Gaya, Jehanabad, Khagaria, Lakhisarai, Patna, Purnia, and Samastipur. Farmers will receive a 50% subsidy, amounting to ₹467.50 per square meter, on a unit cost of ₹935 per square meter under the polyhouse initiative. This technology will offer farmers the opportunity to grow high-quality crops.

Rose Cultivation: Special Benefits in Polyhouses and Shade Nets: Farmers will receive special subsidies for rose cultivation using polyhouses and shade nets. This component will be implemented in 11 districts: Gaya, Jehanabad, Begusarai, Muzaffarpur, Nalanda, Khagaria, Vaishali, Lakhisarai, Patna, Purnia, and Samastipur. A 50% subsidy, amounting to ₹213 per square meter, will be provided on a unit cost of ₹426 per square meter for rose cultivation. This can be a lucrative option for farmers, offering them better returns.

Easy Application Process:

1. To apply under the Protected Farming Scheme, first visit the official website of the Bihar Government (https://horticulture.bihar.gov.in/).
2. Click on the "Schemes" option.
3. A list of schemes run by the Agriculture Department will appear; select the "Protected Farming Scheme" option.
4. A new page will open; click on "Apply for Protected Farming Scheme (State Scheme)."
5. Enter your DBT registration number.
6. Fill out the application form carefully, entering all the required information.
7. Upload the necessary documents after completing the form.
8. Review the application form and documents carefully, then click on the "Submit" button.

Conclusion: The Protected Farming Scheme 2024-25 offers a golden opportunity for farmers. It not only connects them with modern agricultural techniques but also enhances their income. The online application process has begun, and farmers can take advantage of this scheme to advance their farming practices.