Assistance Program for the Cultivation of Lotus Fruit (Dragon Fruit)
At a Glance
Scheme Category
Agriculture,Rural & Environment,Financial assistance
Target Beneficiaries
Individual
Brief Description
The scheme provides financial assistance to farmers to support the cultivation of dragon fruit (lotus fruit), with higher benefits for SC/ST and priority for small-scale and women farmers.
Benefit Type
Cash
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a farmer. - The applicant must be a resident of Gujarat. - The applicant must have a minimum land between 0.20 ha and 1 ha. - The applicant must procure quality planting materials from a nursery and start the plantation. > Note: Preference will be given to small-scale and women farmers.
Application Mode
Online
Application Process
Step 1: The applicant may visit and apply online at I-Khedut Portal: <nis:link nis:type=webUrl nis:id=slugId nis:text="https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/" nis:value=https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/ nis:enabled=true/> Step 2: On the home page, click on ‘Schemes’ and then click on ‘Agricultural Schemes’. Step 3: Now select the scheme, click on the ‘Apply’ button and an application page will open. Step 4: Click on "Apply New" button and submit a new application. Step 5: Click on the "Update Application" button to add corrections to the application. Step 6: Once the application is done, confirm it. Step 7: Take a print out of the confirmed application. Step 8: Applicant can also check their Application Status/View/Print/Upload Application details from the below link: <nis:link nis:type=webUrl nis:id=slugId nis:text="https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/public/frm_Applicant_Corner.aspx" nis:value=https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/public/frm_Applicant_Corner.aspx nis:enabled=true/> > Contact Us: <nis:link nis:type=webUrl nis:id=slugId nis:text="Click here" nis:value=https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/Public/frm_Public_Contacts.aspx nis:enabled=true/>.
Required Documents
- - 7/12 Certificate.
- - Aadhaar Card.
- - Bank Pass Book/Cancelled Cheque.
FAQs
What is the objective of the "Assistance Program for the Cultivation of Lotus Fruit (Dragon Fruit)" scheme?
The objective of this scheme is to financially support farmers in Gujarat who wish to cultivate dragon fruit, thereby promoting horticulture and increasing farmers’ income.
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Any farmer residing in Gujarat with landholding between 0.20 hectares and 1 hectare is eligible to apply for this scheme.
How much financial assistance is provided to general category farmers?
General category farmers are eligible to receive 50% of the total cost or up to ₹3,00,000/- per hectare, whichever is less.
What amount of assistance is available for SC/ST farmers?
SC and ST farmers are eligible to receive 75% of the total cost or up to ₹4,50,000/- per hectare, whichever is less.
Which specific costs are covered under the scheme in the first year?
In the first year, the scheme covers the cost of cement poles/pipes and planting materials, with a maximum assistance of ₹2,44,420/- or 50% of the incurred cost, whichever is less.
What costs are covered in the second year of the scheme?
In the second year, the scheme covers the cost of head rings or trellising and wire, with a maximum assistance of ₹55,580/- or 50% of the incurred cost, whichever is less.
Are there any preferences given under this scheme?
Yes, preference is given to small-scale farmers and women farmers during the selection process.
Is it necessary for the farmer to use certified planting material?
Yes, farmers must procure good quality planting materials of their choice from a nursery and begin planting to qualify for the assistance.
How can a farmer apply for this scheme?
Applicants can apply on the iKhedut portal to avail the benefits of the scheme.
What documents are required to apply for this scheme?
The required documents include an Aadhaar card, a 7/12 land record, and either a bank passbook or a cancelled cheque.
Is there any income limit to apply for the scheme?
No, there is no personal or family income limit prescribed for eligibility under this scheme.
Who should the applicant contact for help or more information about the scheme?
The applicant should contact the nearest agriculture office or visit the iKhedut portal for more information.