Patna: Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has announced a major push to expand fruit cultivation across the state under the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, offering substantial subsidies and technical training to farmers.
Addressing the media, the deputy CM said that farmers are being provided a 50% subsidy for mango and litchi cultivation and a 75% subsidy for banana and papaya. “This initiative will not only strengthen the state’s horticulture sector but also enhance farmers’ incomes through more profitable fruit farming,” he said.
The state government is also promoting micro-irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, with subsidies of up to 80% for farmers. The scheme aims to reduce irrigation costs, improve crop quality, and increase water use efficiency, particularly vital in water-stressed regions.
Under the horticulture scheme, the estimated cost of mango and litchi cultivation is Rs 2 lakh per hectare, of which 50% is subsidised. For banana and papaya, the cultivation cost stands at Rs 60,000 per hectare, with 75% support provided. “Fruit cultivation offers significantly higher returns than traditional crops, thanks to consistent demand, better market prices and scope for processing,” Sinha added.
To further support the transition to horticulture, the state is also offering technical training in modern farming and irrigation practices. The goal, Sinha said, is not only to boost production but to double farmer incomes, generate rural self-employment, and bring unemployed youth into agriculture.
“Through these combined efforts — financial support, training, and modern infrastructure — Bihar aims to become a leading state in fruit production and export,” Sinha said. “This will bring about a transformative change in the lives of our farmers.”
