Long-term gains: Farmers opt for orchard cultivation

Shahjahanpur: In recent times, a huge number of farmers are shifting from traditional farming to horticulture to earn more profit. The demand for fruits and vegetables always remains high in the market. Therefore, the government is encouraging the farmers’ community to go for horticulture production. They have to adopt modern technology for bumper production. Once an orchard is planted, farmers can earn long-term profits.

The District Horticulture Officer, Puneet Kumar Pathak, urged that under the National Agriculture Development Scheme, farmers are being supported to plant orchards. They have the choice to sow different kinds of plants, such as mango, guava, litchi, or dragon fruit. Several farmers in Shahjahanpur have decided to grow guava. The Horticulture Department is supporting them to begin guava orchards.

Also Read: Hyderabad’s air quality deteriorates despite monitoring efforts

If farmers want to plant a guava orchard with the help of the department, they have to register for getting the grant. Pathak further added that farmers can apply for the National Agricultural Development Scheme by visiting the Horticulture Department’s website or office. They need to provide their land document (Khatauni), Aadhaar card, bank passbook, and two photos for the registration. The application process is easy and free.

After the selection, a farmer will get a grant of Rs 11,738 in the first year, with further payments in the second and third years. Pathak also mentioned that all help is given to farmers to plant high-density orchards, which means planting more trees in a smaller area for higher production. The department is also promoting water conservation and motivating farmers to use drip irrigation systems.