With the onset of the monsoon, farmers in the Lakhimpur Kheri district have been presented with a significant opportunity as the Horticulture Department has initiated a drive to provide fruit-bearing and shade-providing saplings entirely free of cost. This initiative is designed to serve a dual purpose: enhancing environmental sustainability across the region and creating a pathway for farmers to double their income through organized horticulture. The department has been actively working to raise awareness about the high earning potential that orchard farming offers to rural growers.
Varieties of Saplings Provided
The Horticulture Department is distributing a wide range of saplings to ensure diverse farming options for the beneficiaries. The list of available plants includes guava, moringa, amla, wood apple, jamun, papaya, lemon, karonda, and custard apple. These species were chosen for their economic viability and adaptability. According to official insights, there are specific varieties of guava now available that begin bearing fruit within just one year, allowing farmers to witness a return on their investment much sooner than traditional crops.
Official Guidance and Benefits
Vandana Verma, the Assistant Horticulture Officer of Lakhimpur Kheri, emphasized that the department is dedicated to educating farmers on the long-term benefits of integrating fruit trees into their land management practices. She noted that farmers can strategically plant these saplings around the periphery of their agricultural fields. Beyond the immediate economic gain, this approach significantly contributes to environmental conservation. Additionally, the department facilitates the distribution of other plants under specific government subsidy schemes, allowing farmers to establish productive orchards with minimal expenditure.
How to Collect the Saplings
The process for availing these benefits has been simplified to ensure accessibility for all. There is no requirement for complex online applications or digital registrations. Interested farmers can visit the District Horticulture Office in person. To complete the process, they simply need to provide a photocopy of their Aadhar card. Upon verification, farmers are free to choose the specific fruit or shade saplings they require for their farms. Further detailed information can be obtained by visiting the district office directly.
