JHARKHAND : The state government has launched a major initiative for farmers. To promote the cultivation of coarse grains (millets) in the state, a plan has been devised to provide an incentive amount to farmers growing Madua (Ragi). Under this scheme, farmers will receive financial assistance of up to â‚ą3,000 for Madua production. Additionally, a scheme has been introduced to provide solar pump sets to farmers at a subsidy of up to 97 percent to strengthen irrigation facilities.
The government’s objective is to increase farmers’ income, promote crops that yield well with less water, and encourage the use of modern technology in agriculture. Traditional crops like Madua have long been grown in various regions of Jharkhand, and preparations are now underway to commercialize their cultivation.
Why is Madua cultivation being promoted?
Madua (Ragi) is considered a nutrient-rich grain. It contains calcium, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients. The demand for millets is rising across the country due to changing lifestyles.
The key features of Madua are:
It grows well even with minimal water.
It can be cultivated in drought-prone areas.
It can prove to be a low-cost crop for farmers.
Its market demand is steadily increasing.
In light of this, the government is encouraging farmers to cultivate it.
Farmers to receive an incentive of â‚ą3,000
Under the state government’s scheme, eligible farmers cultivating Madua will receive financial assistance. This will help farmers with seeds, land preparation, and other agricultural activities.
Receiving this incentive will encourage farmers to shift towards profitable crops alongside traditional farming.
Solar pump sets available at a 97% subsidy
Irrigation is a major challenge in agriculture. Addressing this, the Jharkhand government is working on a scheme to provide solar pump sets to farmers.
Under this scheme, farmers will receive a substantial subsidy on the cost of solar pumps. With assistance covering up to 97 percent of the cost, farmers will have to spend very little from their own pockets. Benefits of Solar Pumps—
Relief from electricity bills.
Reduced dependence on diesel.
Improved irrigation facilities.
Promotion of eco-friendly farming.
Lower costs for farmers in the long run.
Benefits for small and marginal farmers.
A large number of small and marginal farmers in Jharkhand depend on agriculture. Solar irrigation systems can prove to be highly beneficial for such farmers.
If farmers adopt modern irrigation techniques alongside crops like Madua (finger millet), there is a strong possibility of increasing both production and income.
Government’s Focus on the Millet Mission
For the past few years, both the central and state governments have been promoting millets (coarse grains). The objective is to provide farmers with alternative crop options and strengthen nutritional security.
Several schemes are being implemented in Jharkhand to promote the cultivation of Madua, Kodo, Bajra (pearl millet), and other millets.
How can farmers avail the benefits?
To avail the benefits of the scheme, farmers may need to apply through the relevant Agriculture Department or via online channels. Information regarding eligibility, required documents, and the application process can be obtained from the local agriculture office.
Generally, farmers may require the following documents—
Aadhaar card.
Bank account details.
Land-related documents.
Farmer registration details.
Mobile number.
(Document requirements are subject to change as per the scheme’s rules.)
The scheme can transform farming
Agricultural experts believe that if farmers receive financial assistance and facilities like irrigation, they may shift towards cultivating low-risk crops. This would not only improve farmers’ income but also boost millet production in the state.
