Target of 4 lakh acre under green manure tough order

The Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department has a target to cover 4 lakh acre under 'dhaincha' (green manure) cultivation during kharif season.

However, unlike the previous years, when the seeds were sold at subsidised rates through the counters of Haryana Seed Development Corporation (HSDC), the farmers have been asked to buy the seeds from the market.

The department will provide an assistance of Rs 1,000 per acre through direct benefit transfer.

However, with the paddy sowing season set to begin next month, the delay in issuing direction, availability of quality seeds in the market and reluctance of farmers, the department may face a hard time in meeting the targets.

An official said, “Dhaincha requires 40-50 days before it is ploughed back, but with the paddy sowing set to begin, the farmers may not show much interest as not much time is left to grow it.”

The Ambala Deputy Director Agriculture (DDA), Dr Jasvinder Saini, said, “Green manure improves soil structure, reduces dependency on chemical-based fertiliser and increases water holding capacity of the soil. The farmers must cultivate manure. Directions have been issued to the staff to motivate them.”

The Kurukshetra DDA, Dr Karamchand, said, “Farmers were showing interest and registrations had been received to buy dhaincha seeds from HSDC counters. However, due to some issues related to their supply, the government has offered financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per acre. The farmers can buy the seeds from the market. Though there is some delay this year, paddy farmers, especially those who grow basmati varieties, can benefit from the scheme.”