In a bid to address the declining groundwater levels and its impact on agriculture, the Haryana government has launched the “Mera Pani Meri Virasat Yojana.”
This initiative aims to encourage farmers in the state to shift from paddy cultivation to alternative crops, offering financial incentives and subsidies to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Paddy cultivation requires extensive water usage, which contributes to the depletion of groundwater resources.
Recognizing the need for a more efficient irrigation system and diversification of crops, the Haryana government has decided to provide Rs 7000 per acre to farmers who choose to cultivate crops such as Maize, Arhar, Urad, Cotton, Bajra, and Moong instead of paddy.
Under this scheme, farmers will receive a financial assistance of Rs 7000 per acre for the production of alternative crops.
Additionally, they can avail a subsidy of up to 80 percent on micro-irrigation techniques, further promoting water conservation and efficient agricultural practices.
Interested farmers can apply for the scheme on the official website of the State Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department (http://fasal.haryana.gov.in) until 31st July 2023.
To be eligible for the scheme, applicants must be permanent residents of Haryana. However, farmers using electric motors with a power of 50 Hz are not eligible for the scheme.
In an effort to tackle the water crisis and promote sustainable farming, the Haryana government has also introduced subsidies for paddy cultivation.
Farmers who choose to cultivate paddy using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method, which requires less water, will receive a subsidy of Rs 4000 per acre.
The government is also providing subsidies on machinery used for paddy cultivation. By focusing on innovative cultivation techniques, the government aims to reduce water usage and ensure the long-term sustainability of agriculture in the state.
With the “Mera Pani Meri Virasat Yojana,” the Haryana government seeks to empower farmers to make informed choices about their crop selection and irrigation practices.
By encouraging crop diversification and promoting efficient water management, the government aims to mitigate the impact of declining groundwater levels and ensure a sustainable future for agriculture in Haryana.
