Haryana government plans to discourage planting of the water-guzzling rice (paddy) crop, which threatens to deplete the State’s groundwater.
Water depletion in Haryana over the years has led to 60 dark zones in the State, which include 21 critical ones in 10 districts.
The Government also has decided to start a pilot project in seven blocks, where sowing of maize and ‘'tuar’ pulse would be promoted by giving incentives to farmers.
under the new scheme, identified farmers will be provided seed free of cost and given a financial assistance for Rs 2000 per acre in two parts.
The maize crop insurance premium will also be borne by the government.
Also, maize produce will be procured by the government agencies at Minimum Support Price.