The Indian government has always been committed to providing support to farmers in meeting their irrigation needs. Recognizing the high cost of irrigation and the prevalent use of diesel pumps in many areas, the government has launched the Diesel Subsidy Scheme to alleviate the financial burden faced by farmers. Under this scheme, eligible farmers will receive a subsidy on diesel, making it more affordable and accessible for agricultural purposes.
Latest Update on the Diesel Subsidy Scheme
In a recent development, the Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, has undertaken visits to drought-affected areas in the state. Due to insufficient rainfall, six districts in Bihar, namely Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Jamui, and Nalanda, have been severely affected by drought. To address this situation, the Chief Minister has directed the agriculture department to expedite the disbursement of diesel subsidies to approved farmers. The aim is to provide immediate financial assistance to farmers for the purchase of diesel.
Eligibility Criteria and Benefits
The Diesel Subsidy Scheme is specifically designed for registered farmers in Bihar who purchase diesel from authorized petrol pumps for agricultural purposes. To avail the benefits of this scheme, farmers must possess a valid farmer registration number issued by the Bihar government. For detailed information on the Bihar Diesel Subsidy Scheme, please refer to the post on Tractor Junction’s website.
Amount of Subsidy Provided
Under the Diesel Subsidy Scheme, farmers will receive a subsidy of 80% on the purchase of diesel. This subsidy is applicable for a maximum of three irrigation cycles. Considering that approximately 10 liters of diesel is required for one irrigation cycle, farmers will receive a subsidy of INR 2,250 for a total of 30 liters of diesel.
Required Documents for Application
To apply for the scheme, farmers need to submit the following essential documents:
· Aadhar Card
· Farmer Registration Number
· Diesel Purchase Receipt
· Land Ownership Proof
· Mobile Number
· Email ID
· Verified affidavit for non-farmer beneficiaries involved in irrigation
· Proof of Residence
· In the computerized diesel purchase receipt, the registration number consisting of 13 digits should be mentioned, along with the applicant’s signature or thumb impression.
Application Deadline and Procedure
The last date to apply for the scheme is October 30, 2023. Farmers who purchase diesel from registered petrol pumps in Bihar are advised to retain the purchase receipt and ensure that it bears a photocopy of the receipt. Additionally, they must enter their 13-digit farmer registration number on the receipt.
To apply for the Diesel Subsidy Scheme, visit the official website of the Bihar government’s DBT Agriculture portal. Once there, select the option for applying to the Diesel Subsidy Scheme. Complete the application process by submitting the required documents mentioned earlier.
What to Do If Subsidy is Not Received
In some cases, even after the approval of diesel subsidies, farmers may not receive the funds in their accounts, or their applications may be rejected without any apparent reason. In such situations, farmers can file a complaint with the Bihar Lok Shikayat Nivaran Pradhikaran (Public Grievance Redressal Authority). The process of filing a complaint online is straightforward. Bihar farmers can visit https://lokshikayat.bihar.gov.in// to file a complaint against the concerned development officer. The authority ensures that complaints are resolved within 30 days.