Betel Leaf Scheme: Good news for betel leaf producing farmers! Subsidy of up to Rs 35,250 will be available on betel leaf cultivation
Betel Leaf Scheme: The state government has taken an important step to give a new dimension to the traditional betel production of Bihar. With the use of modern technology and a scientific approach, betel cultivation will now become not only a tradition but also a thriving industry. Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has launched the “Pan Vikas Yojana.” Under this, cash assistance as well as technical training will be provided to the farmers of betel-producing areas.
Apart from increasing the income of farmers, this program will also help in preserving and promoting the distinctive features of Desi Paan and Magahi. The State Planning Chief has approved this scheme for a two-year period from financial year 2024-2025 to 2025-2026. He informed us that a total of Rs 499.375 lakh (four crore ninety-nine lakh thirty-seven thousand five hundred rupees) has been approved for withdrawal and expenditure for the financial year 2025-2026.
According to the Deputy Chief Minister, the main objective of this program is to provide necessary grant assistance to the willing farmers of the seven betel leaf-producing districts of the state – Nalanda, Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Sheikhpura, Vaishali and Saran – for expansion of betel leaf cultivation so as to ensure an increase in betel leaf productivity and an increase in farmers’ income.
How much subsidy will be available for betel cultivation
Individual farmers and FPC members growing Magahi and Desi betel leaf will benefit from this program if they cultivate at least 100 square meters (0.01 hectare) and a maximum of 300 square meters. Each farmer will get a minimum grant assistance of Rs 11,750 and a maximum of Rs 35,250. Online lottery system will be used for the selection of beneficiaries, ensuring fairness and transparency.
In addition, through training and awareness programs, the Directorate of Horticulture will make farmers aware of the latest methods of betel leaf production from time to time. According to Sinha, this program is a good first step towards promoting contemporary agricultural practices and providing a scientific basis to the traditional betel production of Bihar. Along with improving the economic condition of the farmers, it will also safeguard the regional uniqueness of the betel.