By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 10: Opposition TMC MLA from Rajabala constituency, Mizanur R Kazi, on Monday questioned the state government about various schemes and financial assistance provided to marginal farmers.
In response to his query regarding government schemes for subsidised fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds in West Garo Hills district, Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh informed the House that the currently available subsidised agricultural inputs in the district include high-yielding variety and hybrid paddy and maize seeds, sprayers, and integrated pest management kits. Farmers can access these subsidised inputs through field functionaries of the department.
When asked whether the government is working to improve irrigation facilities, particularly to support farmers during dry spells, Ampareen stated that the department has distributed 210 sprinkler units and 140 pump sets across seven blocks of West Garo Hills.
A total of 140 farmers have benefited from these provisions under the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme.
Highlighting financial assistance and credit schemes available for small and marginal farmers, she said that under the FOCUS scheme, farmers who are part of a producer group receive financial aid of Rs 5,000 per head to support agricultural activities and enhance productivity.
Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN), landholding farmers receive financial benefits of Rs 6,000 per year, transferred in three equal instalments. Meanwhile, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provides crop insurance to farmers, covering non-preventable natural disasters.
Under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, the Interest Subvention Scheme offers financial security to farmer borrowers who repay their loans on time. These farmers receive a 4% interest subvention from the state government in addition to the 3% provided by the central government, she added.