Haryana CM Announces First Installment of ₹525 Crore Bonus for Farmers

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Friday, August 16, 2024, the release of the first instalment of ₹525 crore in bonuses to 520,000 farmers in the state to support them amid reduced southwest monsoon rainfall. The government is providing a bonus of ₹2,000 per acre for all Kharif crops, with the funds expected to reach the farmers' accounts within a couple of days, according to the Chief Minister. "Our government will transfer ₹2,000 per acre to the accounts of all registered farmers on the government portal," stated Saini.

During the announcement, the Chief Minister also declared the opening of veterinary polyclinics in eight districts, namely Panchkula, Kaithal, Karnal, Hisar, Jhajjar, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Yamunanagar. Additionally, dairy farmers with an annual income of less than ₹3 lakh will be included under insurance coverage.

Highlighting the challenges faced due to insufficient rainfall, Saini noted a significant decrease in crop production compared to the previous year. To mitigate these challenges, the government has decided to provide a ₹2,000 per acre bonus to farmers during the ongoing Kharif season.

Earlier this month, the cabinet, chaired by the Chief Minister, approved the bonus for farmers to compensate for crop losses due to the poor monsoon. The bonus applies to all types of crops, including fruits, flowers, and vegetables. This initiative is also aimed at supporting small farmers with an acre or less of land. 

Furthermore, the cabinet has approved the procurement of 10 additional crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), including Ragi, Soybean, Jowar, and Moong. The state government is already procuring 14 crops at MSP. The expansion of MSP aims to stabilize market prices, ensure consistent income for farmers, and promote the cultivation of diverse crops. In addition, Saini announced the waiver of outstanding fees for canal water irrigation.

In his Independence Day speech in Kurukshetra, Chief Minister Saini stated that his government would soon fill 36,000 vacant positions. Additionally, 1.44 lakh jobs have already been provided to the youth based on merit. 

He affirmed the government's commitment to advancing the economic and educational status of women while ensuring their safety. Haryana is set to hold assembly elections by November.