Panaji: To revitalise neglected khazan lands in Goa, govt has notified a scheme to restore abandoned saline fields by distributing salt-tolerant paddy varieties, including the indigenous Korgut, at fully subsidised rates. Govt also offers schemes for subsidised seeds, free seed kits, incentives for mechanised paddy transplanting, and promotion of improved cultivation technologies.Eligible farmers cultivating in khazan lands and leaseholders with Krishi cards can receive up to 100kg of salt-resistant paddy seed. Directorate of agriculture will procure seeds from registered growers and research institutions before distributing them through cooperative societies and departmental offices.The assistance for high-yielding and certified seed scheme will provide certified paddy, pulse and oilseed seeds to farmers at a 50% subsidy. Assistance covers up to 120 kg of seed sufficient for 2 hectares. Larger farmers are eligible for additional quantities on certification by the concerned zonal agriculture officer. Registered farmer groups collectively cultivating will also be eligible, subject to area verification.Farmers purchasing certified seeds from private dealers can claim 50% reimbursement of the standard or actual cost, whichever is lower, upon submission of bills.Promoting improved technologies in food grain crops scheme includes the free distribution of seed minikits sourced from ICAR, agricultural universities, and research institutions. Farmers will receive paddy, pulse, groundnut and millet seed kits.To encourage mechanisation, owners of paddy transplanters who provide package services to farmers will receive a 50% subsidy, capped at Rs 1 lakh, for purchasing nursery trays, tarpaulin sheets, sieves and other equipment required for mat nurseries.Under the system of rice intensification (SRI) scheme, farmers adopting the water-efficient cultivation technique will receive Rs 20,000 per hectare, subject to a minimum cultivated area of 1,000sqm.Demonstration plots will be set up to showcase improved crop varieties and cultivation techniques. Participating farmers will receive aid for quality seeds, fertilisers, soil conditioners, pesticides and labour. Assistance has been fixed at Rs 7,000 for paddy, Rs 4,500 for pulses and Rs 5,500 for oilseeds per 1,000sqm demonstration plot.
