The Department of Agriculture here has launched ‘Mission Mode’ schemes in Vellore district to increase farm output and capacity building of farmers in the district. Joint director of agriculture Jayasundar said the schemes would focus on soil health management, crop specific strategies, water resources management, integrated farming system approach with extensive use of information technology.
The concept envisages adoption of a package of innovative technologies to make that village a model and convince farmers of the efficacy of improved technologies in boosting productivity while minimising cost. The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technology has reduced costs by 25 to 30 per cent while increasing output. As assistance of Rs 3,000 per hectare is being extended towards critical inputs such as bio-fertilisers and micro nutrients. Under Pulse Intensification system thrust is being given to bring more area under pulses, as pure crop under irrigated condition, Jayasundar said.
Under ‘Millets Mission’ technology, demonstration kits of mixtures of micro nutrient, fungicides and bio-fertilisers would be supplied to farmers with a subsidy component of Rs3,000 per hectare for sorghum and ragi. For samai it is Rs1,610 per hectare.