Question : Initial Cost in Horticultural Crops

(a) whether the initial cost in horticultural crops like orange, mandarian orange, etc. and cash crops like cumin seeds, isabgol, etc. is excessive;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is a fact that input grant is provided considering the initial cost of crops of this category as base in case of crop loss and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether it is also a fact that the Government proposes to enhance agricultural input grants on account of initial cost of horticultural and cash crops being excessive; and

(e) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

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(a) & (b): Yes, Madam. The initial cost of cultivation in perennial horticulture crops like orange and mandarin orange are higher due to higher input costs towards land preparation, cost of planting material, integrated nutrient and pest management etc. The details of initial indicative cost of horticultural crops like orange and mandarin orange are given in Annexure-I. However, the total cost of cultivation ranges for Rs.2.00 - 2.40 lakhs/ha for five years. As far as crops like cumin seed and isabgol are concerned, the initial costs are lower compared to perennial horticulture crops. The total cost of Cumin seed and Isabgol ranges from Rs.47,500 to Rs.71,200/ha. and from Rs.26,920 to Rs.32,500/ha respectively.

(c): The assistance provided under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) for these crops is based on the cost norms fixed on the basis of cost of cultivation. The input costs are also taken into account by providing grant in case of crop loss. The details of cost norms and assistance provided are given in Annexure-II.

(d) & (e): The cost norms revised in year 2014 under MIDH have been in force. There is no proposal to enhance the agricultural input grants as the Government has decided to continue the present input grants.