The Goa government has unveiled a robust package of enhanced agricultural subsidies and a revised assured price for paddy, aimed at easing financial burdens on farmers and spurring rural prosperity, Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik announced in the state assembly on Friday. Responding to a query from BJP MLA Kedar Naik, the minister outlined a series of initiatives designed to bolster farm productivity while reducing input costs, marking a significant push to strengthen Goa’s agricultural sector.

The state is offering a 50 percent subsidy on critical field operations, including ploughing, tilling, transplanting, and harvesting, facilitated through departmental tractors or custom-hired machinery. Farmers can also access high-yielding paddy seeds and salt-tolerant varieties, crucial for reviving khazan lands, at a 50 percent subsidy. For SC/ST farmers, fertilizer subsidies have been increased to 75 percent, while all farmers benefit from a 75 percent subsidy on pesticides and fungicides. Organic inputs and soil conditioners are subsidized at 50 percent, promoting sustainable farming practices.

To modernize agriculture, the government is supporting the procurement of machinery like tractors, power tillers, weed cutters, and paddy transplanters, with subsidies ranging from 50 to 75 percent. Mini kits containing improved seed varieties are being distributed for trial purposes, and farmers are gaining exposure to cutting-edge technologies through Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) programs and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Infrastructure aid, including fencing and community farming support, is also available under the State Sector Scheme.

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A key highlight is the revised assured price for paddy, set at Rs 2 per kg above the Central government’s Minimum Support Price (MSP). The state will reimburse farmers for any shortfall between the MSP and prices realized from registered agencies. Additionally, under the Shetkari Adhar Nidhi scheme, farmers affected by natural calamities or saline water inundation are eligible for compensation of Rs 40,000 per hectare, providing a vital safety net against climate-related losses.

Looking ahead, Naik revealed plans to further increase support. From the 2025-26 financial year, subsidies under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) have been raised by 25 to 40 percent. The government also aims to enhance subsidies for biogas plant construction under the ‘Development of Manures and Fertiliser’ scheme, aligning with its commitment to sustainable agriculture.

These measures reflect Goa’s proactive approach to addressing rising input costs and environmental challenges faced by farmers. With paddy being a staple crop, the revised pricing and comprehensive subsidies are expected to uplift rural incomes and reinforce the state’s agricultural backbone, earning praise from farming communities across Goa.

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