The National Horticulture Mission is one of the government initiatives in India, which aims to empower farmers and implement sustainable horticultural practices. The government has decided to seek applications for installing shade net houses during 2024-25, with an aim to gain many advantages for farmers including better crop protection, better yield, and quality output.
The NHM shade net house scheme is described in detail below in relation to its eligibility, cost involved, application procedure, and farmer’s benefits. With the help of this scheme, Indian farmers can boost their agricultural activities and make their farming more profitable.
Eligibility and Conditions of Farmers
For any farmer to qualify for the NHM shade net house scheme, one is expected to satisfy requirements outlined by the Horticulture Department.
Below are the essential criteria for eligibility:
Land Ownership The applicant should own the land where the shade net house will be built. Minimum Land Area: The designated area for shade net house construction must be dedicated to horticultural crops like fruits, vegetables, spices, or flowers. The minimum land size requirement is 0.400 hectares, and ownership must be verifiable through revenue records. Prior Participation Advantage: Preference will be given to farmers who have demonstrably expanded their horticultural crops under previous Central or State Government schemes. This is a reflection of commitment to agricultural development and responsible use of government support.
Empowering Farmers through Shade Net Technology
The NHM shade net house scheme is, therefore, a very significant investment by the government in empowering Indian farmers. Shade net houses have multifarious benefits that can radically enhance agricultural productivity and incomes: Crop Protection: These shade nets offer a protective barrier against scorching sunlight, heavy rains, and strong winds. Crops are thus protected against damage, and evaporation of water is minimized besides creating a more controlled environment for growth.
Improved Yield and Quality
Shade nets regulate temperature and light exposure, thus optimizing growing conditions for various horticultural crops. This could increase yields, better quality produce, and possibly a higher market value for the farmer’s harvest. Extended Growing Seasons: Shade nets extend the growing season for some crops, enabling farmers to grow and harvest outside their traditional windows. This means more chances to make money throughout the year.
Less Use of Pesticides
The protective environment created by shade nets may reduce pest infestations, thus reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This promotes sustainable farming practices and may lower production costs for farmers. The amount required to construct a shade net house in accordance with NHM estimates Rs. 710 per square meter. The government facilitates a welcome financial incentive through a grant of 50% of the construction, amounting to Rs 355 per square meter while the farmer beneficiary would bear the remaining 50 percent.
Application Process and Necessary Arrangements
Interested farmers can apply for NHM shade net house scheme within the given time frame as set by Horticulture Department. For initial application and further details regarding the same, farmers need to contact their local office of Horticulture Department.
Following are some additional guidelines for farmers before applying.
Conclusion
The NHM shade net house scheme is a great opportunity for Indian farmers to modernize their agricultural practices, increase crop yields, and achieve greater financial prosperity. By taking advantage of this government initiative, farmers will be able to access better technology, better crop protection, and the possibility of producing higher-quality crops. This can then lead to increased market competitiveness and, therefore, higher profits for farmers.
Read More :-
Post Office Schemes Your Guide to Tax Efficient Investments
8th Pay Commission A Long Awaited Dream for Government Employees
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana: Cultivating a Bountiful Future Through Organic Farming
e-PAN Card Scam Alert: Urgent Warning Before Downloading