Agricultural Equipment Grant Scheme: Subsidies for 75 types of Equipment; Applications Open Soon

Key Highlights

• The Agricultural Equipment Grant Scheme offers subsidies on 75 types of machinery.
• Farmers can establish Custom Hiring Centers with an 80% subsidy.
• Applications open from April 5, 2024.
• Online application through Bihar Agriculture Department's official website.
• The scheme aims to boost productivity and sustainability in farming.

After the Rabi harvest, farmers are getting ready for Kharif crops, which need agricultural machinery. However, the high prices of these machines often make it difficult for small and marginal farmers to afford them. The government provides subsidies on agricultural equipment through various schemes to alleviate this burden.

Who Benefits from the Scheme?

Different states run similar schemes under different names. In Madhya Pradesh, it's called E-krishi yantra anudan yojana; in UP, Agricultural Mechanization Scheme (krishi yantrikaran yojana); and in Rajasthan, Agricultural Equipment Grant Scheme (krishi yantra anudan yojana). Bihar operates its scheme under the Agricultural Mechanization State Scheme (krishi yaantrikaran rajya yojana).

Also Read: Last Chance to Grab Subsidy of Rs 1 Lakh on Purchase of Tractor

Subsidy for Setting Up Custom Hiring Centers

In Bihar, the government is offering an 80 percent subsidy on 75 types of agricultural equipment to establish Agricultural Machinery Banks or Custom Hiring Centers. Applications for this scheme will open on April 5, 2024. Farmers interested in starting such ventures can avail the benefits.

The establishment of 257 custom hiring centers will be funded by the state government under the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization Scheme (SMAM). Each center will receive a subsidy of Rs 4 lakh out of the total cost of Rs 10 lakh.

Subsidized Agricultural Equipment

The subsidy covers various equipment essential for ploughing, sowing, weeding, irrigation, harvesting, and gardening. Additionally, machinery for residue management like Happy Seeder, Super Seeder, Straw Baler, and Straw Management System are included in the scheme.

Also Read: Good News for Agricultural Workers: Rs 7660 Per Month & More Benefits Ahead

How to Apply and Where

Eligible farmers can apply online from April 5, 2024, on the official website of the Bihar Agriculture Department. Before applying, registration on the DBT portal of the Agriculture Department, Bihar is mandatory. Applications will be selected through an online lottery, and permits will be issued on the same day with a validity of 21 days.

Important Links

• Official website of the scheme (https://farmech.bih.nic.in/FMNEW/Homenew.aspx)
• Link to apply for the scheme (https://farmech.bih.nic.in/FMNEW/INDSMAMCHC_AppEntry.aspx)
• Information about agricultural equipment and grants can be found by visiting (https://farmech.bih.nic.in/FMNEW/MechanizationImplementList2023_2024.pdf)

This scheme aims to empower small farmers by reducing the financial burden of purchasing agricultural machinery, thereby increasing productivity and efficiency in farming practices.

Also Read: PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Over One Crore Families Signed Up for Free Electricity

CMV360 Says

The Agricultural Equipment Grant Scheme in Bihar offers significant support to small farmers by providing subsidies on essential machinery. With applications opening on April 5, 2024, eligible farmers can seize this opportunity to enhance their farming operations, leading to increased productivity and sustainable agricultural practices.