Nilanjan
Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, is also one of the largest agricultural producers in the country. However, the state’s farmers face a major challenge of crop damage caused by stray animals such as nilgai, monkeys, pigs, and wild boars. To address this issue, the state government has decided to implement the Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana across the state, a scheme that aims to protect crops from stray animals using solar fencing.
What is Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana?
Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana is a scheme that involves installation of a solar fence with a low 12-volt current around the agricultural fields to deter animals without causing harm. When animals come into contact with the fence, a mild shock will be triggered, and a siren will sound, effectively scaring away the animals from entering the fields.
The scheme was initially planned to be implemented in Bundelkhand region of the state, where crop damage by stray animals is more prevalent. However, considering the demand and need of farmers across the state, the government has decided to extend the scheme to all districts of Uttar Pradesh.
The scheme will be implemented by the Agriculture Department of Uttar Pradesh in collaboration with other departments such as Forest, Animal Husbandry, and Rural Development. The scheme will also involve participation of farmers’ groups, self-help groups, cooperatives, and NGOs.
How will Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana benefit farmers?
Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana will have multiple benefits for farmers in Uttar Pradesh. Some of them are:
- It will reduce crop loss and increase crop yield by preventing animal intrusion into the fields.
- It will save time and money for farmers who otherwise have to guard their fields day and night or hire watchmen to do so.
- It will improve the income and livelihood of farmers by enhancing their productivity and profitability.
- It will promote eco-friendly and sustainable farming practices by using solar energy and avoiding harmful chemicals or traps.
- It will create awareness and sensitization among farmers and villagers about wildlife conservation and coexistence.
What are the features and provisions of Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana?
Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana has several features and provisions to ensure its effective implementation and impact. Some of them are:
- The scheme will cover around 10 lakh hectares of agricultural land across the state over the next five years.
- The scheme will provide a substantial grant of 60% subsidy on the total cost i.e. Rs 1.43 lakh per hectare to small and marginal farmers for installing solar fencing. The remaining 40% cost will have to be borne by the farmers themselves or through bank loans.
- The scheme will also provide free maintenance and repair services for the solar fencing for five years.
- The scheme will have a dedicated helpline number and a mobile app for farmers to register their complaints and grievances regarding the scheme.
- The scheme will have a robust monitoring and evaluation mechanism involving GPS mapping, geo-tagging, drone surveillance, etc.
What is the budget and timeline of Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana?
The state government has allocated a budgetary provision of Rs 350 crore for the implementation of Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana for the financial year 2021-22. This is a significant increase from the previous budget of Rs 75 crore for the scheme.
The scheme is expected to be launched soon after receiving the approval from the state cabinet. The Agriculture Department has already prepared the draft of the scheme and sent it to the cabinet for approval.
The scheme will be implemented in phases across the state, starting from Bundelkhand region. The government aims to complete the installation of solar fencing in all districts by March 2024.
What is the significance and impact of Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana?
Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana is a landmark initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government to address one of the most pressing problems faced by farmers in the state. The scheme reflects the vision and commitment of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to uplift the welfare of farmers and ensure their prosperity.
The scheme is expected to create a positive impact on the agricultural sector and rural economy of Uttar Pradesh. It will also contribute to achieving some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as zero hunger, no poverty, decent work and economic growth, climate action, life on land, etc.
Mukhyamantri Khet Suraksha Yojana is a boon for farmers in Uttar Pradesh. It will not only protect their crops from stray animals but also empower them with enhanced mobility, income, and dignity. It will also foster a harmonious relationship between humans and animals, ensuring the conservation and coexistence of both.
