Farmers await incentives under DSR technique for previous season
Even as the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department pushes for wider adoption of the Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) technique, farmers in Ambala and Kurukshetra are yet to receive incentives promised for the previous season — raising concerns ahead of the new sowing cycle.
In Ambala, over 1,060 farmers had opted for DSR on around 6,100 acres, while in Kurukshetra, nearly 7,830 acres were verified under DSR last year. The government offers Rs 4,000 per acre as an incentive to promote this water-saving technique.
Despite the department’s ongoing efforts to promote DSR over traditional paddy transplantation, the delay in releasing incentive payments has discouraged farmers.
An official from the Agriculture Department admitted the issue, stating, “In view of the depleting water table, the department has been making efforts to make farmers adopt the DSR technique. The sowing is set to begin soon, and while targets for the new season are expected to be released shortly, the incentive amount for the previous year is still pending. This delay affects trust and makes it harder to convince more farmers to switch.”
Deputy Director Agriculture, Ambala, Dr Jasvinder Saini said, “The sowing under DSR is expected to begin from May 25. Our field staff is motivating farmers to adopt it to save groundwater. The verified data was sent to the headquarters, and the incentive is expected to be released soon. We are hopeful farmers will get their dues shortly.”
Dr Karamchand, Deputy Director Agriculture, Kurukshetra, echoed the same. “The DSR technique helps save both groundwater and resources. The delay in releasing incentives is regrettable but the funds are expected to be disbursed soon.”
Farmer leader Rakesh Bains, spokesperson of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Charuni), said, “The government launches various schemes, but the benefits are rarely delivered on time. If they are serious about DSR, Mera Pani Meri Virasat, or any diversification effort, then payments must be made without delay.”
