The Horticulture Department in Jaipur is planning to set up new orchards in the state. This will be done by setting a target of planting new garden on an area of around 10,000 hectares / year.
Bhaskar A Sawant, Principal Secretary of Agriculture Department said this while reviewing the progress of various projects of horticulture department. He said the department should look for ways to double farmers' income. As we know doubling farmers' income by 2022 is one of the main objectives of PM Modi government. Hence to achieve this vision, states are coming up with different initiatives and schemes.
Sawant further said the department would provide Rs. 40,000 / hectare to encourage farmers to plant orchards.
At the same time, emphasis will be given on adding value through processing of fruit produced in the state.
Principal Secretary said, last year the new garden was planted in an area of about 3,600 hectares that needs to be increased dramatically.
He asked the department to explore the possibilities of producing specific fruits in each region and plan accordingly. He also directed his officials to prepare an action plan for planting new orchards in an area of 10,000 hectares in Jaipur every year.
Sawant instructed to prepare a farmer training calendar to promote horticulture in a big way as part of the diversification of crops and double farmers' income. At last he asked to speed up work of development of horticulture unit at Mount Abu (Sirohi) as a center of excellence and finish it as early as possible.
On the other hand, the Commissioner of Department of Horticulture, Abhimanyu Kumar also briefed on the progress of various schemes and projects.
Why Doubling Farmers Income is important?
If the income earned by the farmer is doubled then he/she will able to use better farm machinery, and advanced technologies for farming that will further boost productivity.
