SC/ST and Women Sugarcane Farmers to Receive Subsidized Farm Tools Under New Government Initiative
Uttar Pradesh: In a major step towards promoting farm mechanization and reducing cultivation costs, the Uttar Pradesh Sugarcane and Sugar Department has introduced a new subsidy scheme for sugarcane growers. Under the initiative, eligible Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and women farmers will receive small agricultural equipment at a 50% subsidy.
Deputy Sugarcane Commissioner Chaudhary Yashpal Singh announced that the state government has approved the scheme, which will be implemented across Uttar Pradesh. The program aims to encourage the use of modern farming tools in sugarcane cultivation while helping farmers lower production expenses.
According to officials, the scheme will cover various small agricultural implements, including battery-operated sprayers and other farm tools useful for sugarcane farming. Farmers will be selected on a “First Come, First Served” basis through online applications submitted via the SGK Portal.
Eligibility Criteria for Farmers
To avail of the benefits under the scheme, applicants must:
- Be a regular sugarcane supplier and registered member of a sugarcane society.
- Not have any outstanding dues with the sugarcane cooperative society.
- Submit applications online through the SGK Portal.
- Provide necessary documents, including Aadhaar card, land records (Khatauni), caste certificate (where applicable), bank passbook, and a recent photograph.
Subsidy Details
Under the scheme, eligible farmers can receive a 50% subsidy on small agricultural equipment worth up to ₹5,000.
The subsidy amount will be shared equally between:
- 25% contribution from the Sugarcane Cooperative Society
- 25% contribution from the Sugarcane Development Council
Officials stated that at least 33% participation from SC/ST and women farmers will be ensured among the total beneficiaries, making the scheme more inclusive and accessible.
Transparent Purchase and Distribution Process
To maintain transparency and quality standards, agricultural equipment will be procured through the Government of India's GeM (Government e-Marketplace) Portal. The department has also established quality inspection and sample testing mechanisms to ensure that farmers receive reliable and efficient equipment.
Awareness Programs for Farmers
The Sugarcane Department plans to promote the scheme through farmer meetings, agricultural fairs, training sessions, and sugarcane society events. Demonstrations of the equipment will also be organized so that farmers can understand how the tools work and how they can improve productivity in sugarcane cultivation.
Officials believe that the initiative will significantly boost mechanization in sugarcane farming, reduce labor dependency, and improve overall farm efficiency across the state.
