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Muzaffarpur: State government announces new subsidy scheme for litchi farmers
Muzaffarpur, Bihar – The Bihar government has announced a new subsidy scheme to provide relief to the litchi farmers of the state. The scheme has been launched with the aim of increasing the income of farmers, improving production, and making litchi cultivation more profitable.
Salient features of the scheme:
Subsidy for irrigation: Farmers will be given up to 50% subsidy for installing drip irrigation and micro irrigation systems.
Assistance on fertilizers and pesticides: The government will provide 40% subsidy on the purchase of organic manure and advanced pesticides.
Cold storage facilities: Special assistance will be given on cold storage construction for the storage of litchi, so that farmers can be helped in preserving their produce for a longer period.
Training and awareness: Farmers will be given training on modern farming techniques and marketing methods.
Selection of beneficiaries:
To avail the scheme, farmers have to register on the portal of the Agriculture Department. Priority will be given to those farmers who are using improved varieties for litchi production.
Government statement:
The Agriculture Minister said, “Muzaffarpur’s Shahi Litchi is the identity of not only Bihar but the entire country. The aim of this scheme is to provide economic strength to litchi farmers and increase the demand for Bihar’s litchi in the global market.”
Farmers’ response:
Litchi farmers have welcomed this initiative. Rameshwar Singh, a farmer from Muzaffarpur, said, “This scheme of the government will be very helpful for us. Getting irrigation and storage facilities will reduce our costs and increase profits.”
Challenges in litchi production:
Litchi farmers of Muzaffarpur often face weather irregularities, pest infestation, and lack of storage facilities. This scheme can prove to be helpful in reducing these problems.
Economic impact:
Experts believe that this scheme will improve the quality and production of litchi, which can increase the income of farmers by 20-30%.
Future plans:
The state government has indicated that special incentives will also be given to promote processing and export of litchi in future.
This effort to get Muzaffarpur’s Shahi Litchi recognized globally will not only benefit the farmers but will also strengthen the agricultural economy of Bihar.