Cold Storage Warehouse: Bihar Government Offers 75% Subsidy for Onion Storage Units

Key Highlights

• Bihar government provides 75% subsidy for onion storage units.
• The total cost of a unit is Rs 6 lakh.
• Farmers only need to invest Rs 1.5 lakh.
• Available for farmers in 23 eligible districts.
• Applications can be submitted online via the Horticulture Department website.

As the Diwali festival season unfolds in India, onion prices are on the rise. With the arrival of onions in major markets, retail prices have also reached around Rs 60 per kg. Market experts attribute this increase to insufficient storage facilities, which is critical for farmers to maintain a steady supply and also secure better prices for their produce. To address this issue, the Bihar government has announced a substantial initiative to support the farmers by providing a 75% subsidy for setting up onion storage units.

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What is the Onion Storage Unit Scheme?

Under the National Agricultural Development Scheme for 2024-25, the Bihar government is promoting the construction of onion storage units, each with a capacity of 50 metric tons (MT). The total cost for building one of these storage units is set at Rs 6 lakh. The government will subsidize up to Rs 4.50 lakh, meaning farmers will only need to invest Rs 1.50 lakh of their own money. This financial assistance aims to prevent the spoilage of onion crops, allowing farmers to sell their produce at fair prices.

Who Can Benefit?

Farmers from 23 districts in Bihar are eligible to apply for this subsidy. These districts include:

• Aurangabad
• Kaimur
• Khagaria
• Gaya
• Rohtas
• Bhojpur
• Buxar
• Jehanabad
• Lakhisarai
• Nawada
• Saran
• Sheikhpura
• Siwan
• Banka
• Begusarai
• Bhagalpur
• Madhubani
• Munger
• Nalanda
• Patna
• Purnia
• Samastipur
• Vaishali

How to Apply Online

Farmers interested in the subsidy can apply online through the official Horticulture Department website. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Horticulture Department website.
2. Click on the application for the "National Development Scheme."
3. Find and click the link related to the subsidy for onion storage units.
4. Fill in your details and submit the application form.

Farmers can also seek assistance from CSC Centers or Vasundhara Centers to apply for the subsidy.

Key Points to Remember

The Bihar government's initiative is a significant step towards helping farmers build storage facilities for their onion crops. By applying for this subsidy, farmers can protect their harvest from spoilage and can also enhance their market opportunities. For more information about the scheme, farmers can visit the official government website or contact the local Agriculture or Horticulture Department offices.

This scheme not only supports farmers but also aims to stabilize onion prices in the market, benefiting both producers and consumers during the festive season.

Also Read: Government Removes Minimum Export Price on Non-Basmati Rice: A Big Win for Farmers

CMV360 Says

The Bihar government's 75% subsidy for onion storage units is a vital support for farmers. This initiative helps to prevent the spoilage of the crops and also ensures better market prices. By enabling farmers to access affordable storage solutions, the scheme promotes agricultural stability and benefits both producers and consumers during the festive season.