Government Subsidy: The Haryana government is taking proactive measures to promote the cultivation of date palms in drought-affected regions, a strategy that is expected to significantly boost farmers’ incomes. Recognizing the challenges posed by arid conditions, the government is focusing on introducing this lucrative crop as a viable alternative for local farmers.
Cultivation of date palms
To facilitate this initiative, the horticulture department has sourced Barhi variety date palm saplings, which are traditionally grown in various Arab nations known for their favorable climate for date production. These saplings are currently being cultivated in a state-of-the-art tissue culture laboratory located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, ensuring that they are of high quality and well-suited for the Indian environment.
Subsidy of up to Rs 1.5 lakh
In a bid to encourage farmers to adopt this new crop, the Haryana government is offering substantial financial support in the form of a subsidy of up to Rs 1.5 lakh per acre. This financial assistance is designed to alleviate the initial investment burden on farmers, making it more feasible for them to transition to date palm cultivation. The initiative is particularly targeted at drought-prone districts such as Bhiwani, Hisar, Sirsa, Rewari, and Mahendragarh, with a keen emphasis on regions that border Rajasthan, where the climate is more conducive to date palm growth.
Experts in horticulture have highlighted the long-term benefits of cultivating date palms, noting that these trees can have a lifespan of up to 100 years and can yield fruit for as long as 60 years. This longevity makes date palms an attractive option for farmers seeking a sustainable source of income. By investing in date palm cultivation, farmers can secure a reliable revenue stream over many years, thereby enhancing their economic stability and improving their overall quality of life.