Patna: Bihar is now set to develop horticulture in the state. Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha made an announcement on Tuesday that the state government is committed to developing horticulture in a massive way and inspiring farmers to use water judiciously. While speaking in Patna, Sinha said that all efforts are being made to boost farmers’ profit and suppress unemployment among youth through modern farming methods.
Farmers in Bihar have been encouraged to concentrate more on the growth of fruits instead of traditional crops. Under the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, the Nitish government has been ready to provide a 50% subsidy for harvesting mangoes and litchis, and a 75% subsidy is to be given to farmers for papaya and banana cultivation.
He went on to say that under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, those farmers using micro-irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler methods are getting subsidies up to 80%. Such systems will help in saving water as well as improving the quality and quantity of crops as well. The government is looking to give technical training to unemployed youth so that they can become self-reliant through horticultural cultivation.
Horticulture plays a key role in boosting farmers’ income and strengthening the rural economy. The demand for fruits always remains high in the market, giving better prices to farmers. Food processing industries can also be promoted with horticultural products, such as the making of jam, jelly, chutney, pickles, and many more.
It seems Bihar is now turning towards a horticulture hub; the shift will help farmers to improve their livelihoods, and it also promises to be a stronger agricultural future for the state. The state government initiative will certainly give a shot in the arm to farmers. They have to just utilize the opportunities.
