Lucknow: Polyhouse farmers and industry representatives from 10 states on Friday staged demonstrations outside National Horticulture Board (NHB) offices, alleging delays in Grant of Capital Subsidy (GOC) approvals, reduced financial assistance and changes in eligibility norms.They claimed no new GOCs have been issued since June and that fresh applications remain closed, affecting investments, bank loans and employment.The protesters submitted a memorandum seeking withdrawal of the Aug 21 NHB circular, restoration of 50% subsidy for eligible projects and time-bound processing of pending applications. They also sought clear guidelines on eligibility, subsidy rates and GOC timelines.During the campaign, farmers raised questions over policy changes following the subsidy controversy involving Union minister of state for agriculture and ex officio NHB vice-chairman Bhagirath Choudhary, who has denied wrongdoing and said the subsidy amount would be returned.
