Boost for Cotton Farmers: 7,000 in Sirsa to Get Higher Incentives

Sirsa: 7,000 Farmers to Benefit from Enhanced Cotton Sowing Scheme

Sirsa: In a move to promote indigenous cotton cultivation, the Haryana government has increased the financial assistance under its cotton sowing scheme. Farmers will now receive ₹4,000 per acre, up from the earlier ₹3,000, aiming to revive interest in desi cotton across the state.

Around 7,000 registered farmers in Sirsa district are expected to directly benefit from this scheme. Known as a major hub for indigenous cotton, Sirsa has historically led cotton production in Haryana. However, in recent years, farmers shifted away from cotton due to declining yields caused by pink bollworm infestations and other crop diseases.

As a result, many farmers moved towards paddy cultivation, leading to a sharp drop in cotton acreage. Through this enhanced incentive, the government aims to encourage farmers to return to cotton farming and increase the cultivation area.

The issue of declining cotton cultivation was raised in the Haryana Assembly by Congress MLA Gokul Setia, who demanded expansion of the scheme and better support for farmers. Responding to the concerns, Agriculture and Panchayat Minister Shyam Singh Rana acknowledged the need for higher incentives and improved seed quality.

Agriculture Department officials stated that around 17,000 acres in Sirsa are currently under indigenous cotton cultivation. They have also recommended including cotton under the Bhavantar Yojana to ensure farmers are compensated when market prices fall below expected levels.

Officials believe that increasing financial support and ensuring price protection will help restore farmers’ confidence in cotton cultivation.

Key Highlights of the Scheme:

• Incentive increased to ₹4,000 per acre for desi cotton cultivation

• Additional bonus of ₹2,000 per acre for growing cotton, pulses, and oilseeds instead of paddy

• Expansion of organic farming in 10 markets

• Higher compensation under CM Horticulture Insurance Scheme for fruits, vegetables, and spices

• ₹5,000 per acre incentive for sugarcane cultivation using single bud technology

• Beekeeping to be included under horticulture insurance scheme

• 7 veterinary dispensaries and 4 government veterinary hospitals to be established

This initiative is expected to boost cotton cultivation, support farmers’ income, and strengthen the agricultural economy in the region.