The Spices Board under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has extended financial support for ginger cultivation in the North Eastern region under the SPICED Scheme for the financial year 2026-27. Farmers in the area can apply for help with the cost of quality planting material before 31st August 2026.
This support is part of a larger programme called Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development (SPICED), which was approved for implementation during the 15th Finance Commission cycle and extended up to 30th September 2026. The scheme helps ginger growers improve crop yield and quality so they can sell more to international markets.
Promotion of Exportable Surplus of Identified Spices in Northeast: Cultivation of Ginger
The Government of India runs this programme through its regional offices across the North East. By covering half of the expense for certified ginger seed rhizomes, the Board aims to raise the standard of ginger produced in the region. Better quality planting material means higher yields and stronger export earnings for farmers. As of 2026, the application window opened on 1st July 2026 and closes on 31st August 2026.
Ginger is one of the most important spice crops grown in the North Eastern states. The region produces a large share of India's total ginger output, and this scheme makes sure farmers have access to disease-free, high-quality seeds. Without good planting material, even experienced growers struggle to get the best results. The financial help reduces that burden significantly.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Promotion of Exportable surplus of identified spices in NE: Cultivation of NE ginger (Ha) |
|---|---|
| Level | Central |
| Beneficiary Type | Individual |
| Benefit Type | Cash assistance |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Commerce and Industry |
| Implementing Agency | Spices Board |
| Last Date | 31st August 2026 |
How to Apply
Farmers need to submit their applications through the ServicesPlus portal. The process starts with creating an account using a valid mobile number and email address.
STEP 1 - Visit the ServicesPlus website at serviceonline.gov.in/dbt and register by entering your personal details including mobile number and email ID.
STEP 2 - Log in to your dashboard after registration, select the ginger cultivation scheme from the list of available programmes, fill in the required land and crop information, and upload the necessary documents before submitting the form.
Regional offices of the Spices Board can also assist applicants in completing the online form if needed.
Benefits
The scheme provides the following financial support to eligible ginger growers:
- Reimbursement of 50% of the cost incurred for purchasing certified ginger planting material.
- Maximum financial assistance capped at ₹30,000 per hectare of cultivated area.
Eligibility
To qualify for financial support, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a ginger grower located in the North Eastern states, including Sikkim, and the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of West Bengal.
- Must possess a land holding size between 0.10 hectares and 8 hectares dedicated to ginger cultivation.
- Final selection is subject to verification, field inspections, and recommendations by designated authorities from the Spices Board.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready before starting your application:
- Land documents like Parcha copy or a possession certificate proving ownership or cultivation rights.
- Self-attested land sketch map showing the exact boundaries of the cultivated area.
- Aadhaar card for identity verification.
- Copy of a valid bank passbook with account details for direct benefit transfer.
- No Objection Certificate from the local panchayat if the land is not registered in the applicant's name.
References
For further details and official notifications, visit the channels below:
- SPICED Scheme Guidelines – Spices Board
- Notice Inviting Applications – SPICED 2026-27
- ServicesPlus Application Portal
FAQ's
What is the latest status of this scheme in 2026?
The scheme continues under the SPICED umbrella and is extended till 30th September 2026. Applications for FY 2026-27 are being accepted online through the ServicesPlus portal.
When does the application period close?
The last date to submit applications for the current financial year is 31st August 2026.
What financial assistance is available under this scheme?
Farmers receive a subsidy of 50% of the cost of planting material, subject to a maximum limit of ₹30,000 per hectare.
What is the minimum land requirement to participate?
Applicants must cultivate ginger on a minimum of 0.10 hectares of land to be eligible for the scheme benefits.
Are field inspections mandatory?
Yes, designated officials perform field inspections to verify the cultivated area and planting material usage before the subsidy is approved.
Who manages the implementation of this scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Spices Board through its regional and field offices located across the North Eastern region.
Can tenant farmers apply?
Tenant farmers may apply provided they possess valid proof of cultivation or a lease agreement, subject to verification by Spices Board authorities.