Solar dryer subsidy for farmers: 40% support for machines

Farmers in Jhalawar district can now get solar dryers to dry horticulture and farm produce, with the government offering up to 40 percent subsidy under the National Horticulture Mission. The machines will help dry tomatoes, chillies, garlic, amla, ashwagandha and white musli in less time, in a clean and safe way, avoiding spoilage in the open and improving quality and price.

Horticulture Deputy Director Subhash Sharma said a 70 kg capacity solar dryer costs Rs 2.50 lakh, while a 100 kg capacity unit costs Rs 3.50 lakh. The government will provide up to 40 percent subsidy, and one farmer can buy a maximum of five machines. Targets of five units each have been set for the 70 kg dryer in the general and Scheduled Caste categories, and for the 100 kg dryer in the Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste categories.

Farmers interested in the scheme can contact their assistant agriculture officer, agriculture supervisor or the horticulture department for details on eligibility, documents and the application process.