Patna. Bihar government has announced a new initiative to increase the income of horticulture farmers and improve the quality of fruits. The state government will now provide financial assistance to farmers, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), self-help groups, women entrepreneurs and youth to set up ripening chambers.
The objective of this scheme is to ripen fruits scientifically, reduce crop wastage and provide better market prices to farmers. The government believes that the use of modern technology will strengthen the horticulture value chain of the state and pave the way for sustainable increase in the income of farmers.
Grant up to 35 percent or maximum Rs 35 thousand
Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will be given a subsidy of 35 percent of the project cost or up to a maximum of Rs 35,000 per metric tonne capacity. This assistance will be provided for setting up ripening chambers, so that more and more farmers can take advantage of modern facilities. The government aims that small and medium scale farmers can also manage their produce better by adopting this technology.
Which crops will get the most benefits?
Banana, mango, papaya and tomato are produced in large quantities every year in Bihar. Due to excessive arrival of these crops in the market at the time of harvesting, prices fall and farmers have to sell their produce at lower prices. If ripening chamber is available, farmers will be able to preserve their produce for some time in a safe environment and will be able to sell it at a better price when the demand increases in the market.
How will farmers benefit?
Farmers can get many benefits by having the facility of ripening chamber.
The shelf life of fruits will increase, which will reduce the risk of spoilage.
Sale will be possible in a phased manner as per market demand.
The situation of being forced to sell produce at low prices will reduce.
The quality, colour, taste and aroma of fruits will improve.
It will help in increasing the income of farmers.
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