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Irrigation is a key aspect of farming in India’s rural areas, but many farmers face challenges with water supply. The Nalkoop Yojana (2024-25) aims to provide financial assistance to farmers who are part of the micro-irrigation scheme or are cultivating crops like Makhana (fox nut). This scheme is especially beneficial for farmers in districts where Makhana cultivation is prominent. Let’s explore the details of this scheme.

Objective of the Nalkoop Yojana:

The main goal of the Nalkoop Yojana is to provide affordable irrigation solutions to farmers, helping them improve crop yields. This will also help increase farmers’ income and offer relief from water scarcity.

Who Can Benefit?

The Nalkoop Yojana will benefit farmers who are either part of the micro-irrigation scheme or are cultivating Makhana in the designated districts.

Designated Districts for Makhana Cultivation:

The scheme prioritizes farmers in specific districts of Bihar known for Makhana cultivation. These districts include.

1. Madhubani
2. Darbhanga
3. Katihar
4. Purnia
5. Madhepura
6. Supaul
7. Saharsa
8. Araria
9. Kishanganj
10. Khagaria

Eligibility and Required Documents:

To benefit from the scheme, farmers must provide land ownership documents. Rented farmers can apply with an agreement, and in case of unclear land ownership, a family lineage certificate will be required.

Minimum Land and Command Area Requirements: Applicants must own at least 0.5 acres of land, and the Nalkoop must have a command area of up to 8 hectares. The well will be used for either drip irrigation or Makhana cultivation.

Exclusions in Critical Areas: The scheme will not be applicable in highly stressed and critical areas identified by the Central Ground Water Board, where the groundwater situation is already severe.

Subsidy Rates Under the Scheme:

Subsidy rates vary based on the category of the applicant.

1. General Category: 50% subsidy on total cost.
2. Backward and Extremely Backward Categories: 70% subsidy.
3. Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes: 80% subsidy.

Subsidy Provisions in South and North Bihar:

South Bihar:

1. General Category: Up to ₹57,000
2. Backward Category: Up to ₹79,800
3. SC/ST Category: Up to ₹91,200

North Bihar:

1. General Category: Up to ₹36,000
2. Backward Category: Up to ₹50,400
3. SC/ST Category: Up to ₹57,600

Nalkoop Depth and Limits: Due to lower groundwater levels in South Bihar, the maximum depth of the Nalkoop is limited to 70 meters, while in North Bihar, the depth is restricted to 35 meters.

Responsibility for Electrical Work: Farmers will be responsible for the electrical work related to the Nalkoop, ensuring smooth implementation. Subsidy payments will be processed only after the well becomes operational.
Documentation and Authorized Officers

The survey records for the Nalkoop scheme will be documented by the Assistant Director of the respective district. Certified engineers from registered companies for micro-irrigation will be authorized to carry out this task.

Online Application Process:

1. Visit the official government website: https://mwrd.bih.nic.in/mnny/default.aspx and select the Nalkoop Yojana option.
2. Upload the required documents, including land ownership certificates, family lineage proof, etc.
3. Fill out the application form, verify the details, and submit it.
4. Upon successful application, a receipt will be issued to the applicant.

Conclusion: The Nalkoop Yojana 2024-25 is designed to help farmers by providing irrigation support and increasing their income. Through this scheme, the government is not only encouraging agriculture but also empowering farmers to become self-reliant. Farmers interested in availing the benefits of this scheme can apply online today.

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