(a) the details of the production of various spices in the country during each of the last three years and the current year, State-wise including Uttar Pradesh;
(b) whether Lakhimpur area of Uttar Pradesh is suitable for growing spices; and
(c) if so, the incentive/assistance provided by the Government to the small and marginal spice growing farmers to increase the production of spices in the country including Uttar Pradesh?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (DR. SANJEEV KUMAR BALYAN)
(a): As per available information, statement indicating state-wise production of various spices in the country including Uttar Pradesh during the last three years is at Annexure.
(b): Yes, Madam. As per information received from the State Government, Lakhimpur district is suitable for cultivation of spices viz. chilies, turmeric, garlic etc.
(c): Under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), assistance for development of seed spices and rhizomatic spices is provided to an extent of 40% of the cost, to a maximum of Rs.12,000 per hectare, towards meeting the expenditure on planting material and cost of material for INM/IPM etc. For perennial spices, assistance provided is 40% of the cost to a maximum of Rs.20,000 per ha. In case of North Eastern and Himalayan States, Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) areas, Andaman & Lakshadweep Islands, assistance is 50% of the cost.
Assistance can also be availed under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana as per MIDH norms.