Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Scheme

Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Yojana (Fruit Orchard Plantation Scheme):

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🌳 Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Yojana: Empowering Farmers Through Fruit Orchard Cultivation

Agriculture in Maharashtra is undergoing a significant transformation, with the state government introducing innovative schemes to enhance farmers' income and sustainability. One such progressive initiative is the Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Yojana — a scheme aimed at encouraging fruit orchard cultivation among farmers. Launched by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Maharashtra, this scheme is named in memory of the late Bhausaheb Fundkar, a visionary agricultural leader and former Agriculture Minister of Maharashtra.

Let’s take a closer look at how this scheme is revolutionizing horticulture in the state.

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🍎 What Is the Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Yojana?

This scheme promotes the plantation of fruit-bearing trees (falbag) by offering financial assistance and technical support to farmers. It aims to increase farmers’ income through high-value, long-term horticultural crops rather than traditional seasonal farming.

The scheme supports the cultivation of fruits like mango, guava, pomegranate, sapota, citrus, and custard apple in suitable agro-climatic regions.

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🎯 Objectives of the Scheme

• Promote diversification of crops towards horticulture.

• Increase farmers’ income through high-value fruit crops.

• Improve soil health and promote sustainable agriculture.

• Generate employment in rural areas through orchard maintenance and fruit processing.

• Encourage the adoption of drip irrigation and other modern techniques.

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✅ Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the scheme, farmers must meet the following conditions:

Criteria	Details
Applicant	Individual farmers, farmer groups, FPOs, and SHGs
Land Ownership	Must own or lease land suitable for fruit orchard plantation
Land Size	Minimum of 0.25 hectares and maximum of 4 hectares per farmer
Location	Applicant must be a resident of Maharashtra
Water Source	Must have access to a reliable irrigation source
Willingness to maintain orchard	Must commit to maintaining the plantation for at least 3–5 years

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💰 Financial Assistance

The government offers subsidy-based support, which includes:

• 60% to 75% subsidy on the total cost of orchard establishment (varies by category and crop)

• Coverage for:

  • Quality saplings/planting material

  • Drip irrigation system

  • Fencing

  • Mulching sheets

  • Fertilizers and micronutrients (first year)

  • Maintenance for 3 years

Women farmers, SC/ST beneficiaries, and small/marginal farmers may receive higher subsidy rates.

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🌱 List of Approved Fruit Crops

The scheme promotes the plantation of climate-suitable fruit trees, including:

• Mango (Kesar, Alphonso)

• Guava (L-49, Allahabad Safeda)

• Pomegranate (Bhagwa)

• Custard Apple

• Lemon and Citrus fruits

• Sapota (Chiku)

• Jamun

• Aonla (Indian Gooseberry)

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🧾 Required Documents

Farmers need to submit the following documents while applying:

• Aadhaar Card

• 7/12 Land Record (Satbara Utara)

• Bank Passbook (Aadhaar-linked)

• Recent Photograph

• Caste Certificate (for reserved category beneficiaries)

• Proof of water availability (e.g., borewell, canal certificate)

• Consent letter if land is leased

• Affidavit to maintain orchard as per norms

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🖥️ How to Apply?

The application process is largely online through the MahaAgriculture portal:

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit the official website: https://www.mahaagri.gov.in

2. Click on the relevant horticulture scheme section.

3. Register using Aadhaar and mobile OTP.

4. Fill in details and upload documents.

5. Submit and note the application ID for tracking.

6. Field officers will conduct site verification.

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📌 Key Implementation Guidelines

• Farmers must follow recommended spacing, planting, and maintenance practices.

• Regular inspections by agricultural officers ensure compliance.

• Subsidy is disbursed in installments based on progress and survival rate of trees.

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🔍 Monitoring and Support

• The Department of Horticulture monitors the implementation.

• District-level horticulture officers assist in inspections and guidance.

• Farmers receive technical training and field visits.

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🌿 Benefits of the Scheme

• Long-term income security from fruit crops

• Low operational cost after initial years

• Enhances biodiversity and soil conservation

• Encourages modern irrigation and organic methods

• Opportunities for agro-processing and value addition

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📝 Conclusion

The Bhausaheb Fundkar Falbag Lagvad Yojana is a transformative step towards sustainable agriculture in Maharashtra. By encouraging fruit cultivation, the scheme not only boosts farmers’ income but also promotes environmental sustainability. Farmers across the state should explore this opportunity to build profitable and resilient orchards for a brighter agricultural future.

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📢 Pro Tip: If you're a farmer in Maharashtra and meet the eligibility, apply early in the financial year to get the best planting season and priority processing.