AI SummaryHimachal Pradesh government's Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana is helping farmers shift to chemical-free natural farming, and the state now buys naturally grown produce at a higher Minimum Support Price (MSP). The scheme, announced in the 2024-25 state budget with an allocation of Rs 50 crore, aims to move thousands of farmers toward sustainable agriculture and raise their incomes.
Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana (राजीव गांधी प्राकृतिक खेती स्टार्ट-अप योजना) is a new and first-of-its-kind scheme that promotes chemical-free farming, supports unemployed youth, and makes sure farmers get a fair price for naturally grown crops. It builds on the state's older natural farming program, the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana, which has been running since 2018-19.
What is the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana?
At its core, the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana is a scheme that helps farmers in Himachal Pradesh move away from chemical-heavy farming and adopt eco-friendly methods. It works through financial support, assured procurement, and training so that natural farming becomes a steady source of income.
startuphimachal.hp.gov.in - Himachal Pradesh Mukhyamantri Start-up Yojana
The scheme is being rolled out in phases, starting with 10 farmers in every panchayat. These farmers are encouraged to replace chemical fertilizers and pesticides with cow dung, cow urine, and biofertilizers.
MSP Hike on Natural Farming Produce in 2026
In April 2026, the state government raised the Minimum Support Price for naturally grown crops to strengthen the rural economy and push chemical-free farming. The MSP for wheat has gone up from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg, maize from Rs 40 to Rs 50 per kg, and barley (Pangi Valley, Chamba) from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg. Raw turmeric has seen a sharp rise from Rs 90 to Rs 150 per kg, while naturally grown ginger will be bought at Rs 30 per kg.
Under the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Protsahan Yojana (RGPKPY), the government plans to procure 400 metric tonnes of wheat from around 2,000 farmers, 250 MT of maize, 150 MT of raw turmeric, and 30 MT of barley this year. A budgetary provision of Rs 6.95 crore has been proposed to support this procurement.
| Scheme Name | Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana |
|---|---|
| Objective | Increase farmers' income and promote chemical-free farming |
| Phase-wise Implementation | Initially, 10 farmers per Panchayat encouraged for chemical-free farming |
| Support Mechanism | Procurement of naturally grown grains at MSP |
| MSP for Wheat | Rs 80 per kg |
| MSP for Maize | Rs 50 per kg |
| MSP for Raw Turmeric | Rs 150 per kg |
| MSP for Barley | Rs 80 per kg |
| Official Website | spnfhp.in |
Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana - Key Components
The scheme works through a few main parts that together make natural farming easier and more profitable for farmers.
- Phased Implementation: The scheme is being rolled out in phases, initially targeting 10 farmers per Panchayat to adopt natural farming. These farmers are encouraged to replace chemical fertilizers and pesticides with cow dung and biofertilizers.
- Assured Procurement at MSP: To reduce the risk for farmers who switch to natural farming, the government guarantees the purchase of naturally grown grains at a Minimum Support Price. This gives farmers financial security and encourages wider use of sustainable methods.
- Youth Empowerment: The scheme sees the potential of unemployed youth and aims to create business opportunities in natural farming. The government helps young entrepreneurs with the procurement and marketing of naturally grown produce.
Himachal Pradesh Mukhya Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
Eligibility Criteria for Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana
Here is the detailed explanation of each eligibility requirement for the scheme:
- Applicant must be a resident of Himachal Pradesh: The applicant or the farmer must be living in Himachal Pradesh at the time of applying for the scheme.
- Applicant must be a farmer: The applicant must be actively engaged in farming and must have a valid farmer's ID card.
- Applicant must have 0.5 hectares of land: The applicant must have at least 0.5 hectares of land that they are willing to use for natural farming.
- Applicant must be willing to practice natural farming: This means the applicant must be willing to use natural farming methods, such as organic fertilizers and pesticides, on their land.
HP Ration Card Application Form PDF
Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Yojana - Application Process
Farmers who meet the eligibility requirements can register for the scheme through the official natural farming portal of Himachal Pradesh at spnfhp.in. The portal handles farmer registration, natural farming certification, and incentives under the scheme.
Farmers can also reach out to their local Panchayat office or the block ATMA office for help with registration. The Agriculture Department of Himachal Pradesh provides guidance and support through these offices.
Documents Required
Following documents may be required during the application of the scheme.
- Proof of residency in Himachal Pradesh (Aadhar card, voter ID, etc.)
- Land ownership documents
- Farmer identification document
FAQ's about Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Yojana
What is the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Yojana?
This is a government scheme in Himachal Pradesh designed to promote natural farming practices. It aims to help farmers increase their income and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system.
How does the Prakritik Kheti Yojana help farmers?
The scheme provides financial support to farmers who want to switch to natural farming methods. It also guarantees a minimum price for naturally grown crops and offers training and support to help farmers make the transition.
Am I eligible for this scheme?
To be eligible for this scheme, you must be a resident of Himachal Pradesh, an active farmer, own at least 0.5 hectares of land, and be willing to adopt natural farming practices.
Can young people benefit from the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana?
Yes! The scheme recognizes the importance of youth involvement in agriculture. It offers support to young people interested in starting businesses related to the procurement and marketing of naturally grown produce.
How to apply for Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana?
The first step is to visit the official portal at spnfhp.in or contact your local Panchayat office or the designated agricultural department office in your district. They will provide you with an application form and guide you through the process.
Additional information about the scheme:
- The scheme is open to all farmers in Himachal Pradesh, irrespective of their caste, creed, or gender.
- The scheme provides financial support to farmers who adopt natural farming methods.
- The financial support includes a subsidy on the cost of organic fertilizers and pesticides, as well as a training allowance.
- The scheme also provides marketing support to farmers who produce natural crops.
Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Yojana is a good opportunity for farmers in Himachal Pradesh to adopt sustainable farming practices and improve their incomes. For more information, visit the official website of the Himachal Pradesh government's agriculture department at agriculture.hp.gov.in or the natural farming portal at spnfhp.in.
Swaran Jayanti Gyanodaya Cluster Shreshtha Vidyalaya Yojana
Addressing Financial Challenges
While the Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana holds strong promise, the state government acknowledges the money problems inherited from earlier administrations. However, the government remains committed to the scheme, recognizing its role in strengthening the rural economy and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The Path Forward
The Rajiv Gandhi Prakritik Kheti Start-up Yojana marks a big step in Himachal Pradesh's agricultural landscape. By supporting natural farming, encouraging youth entrepreneurship, and making sure farmers get fair prices, the scheme looks toward a future where agriculture is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.
As the scheme grows, it has the potential to serve as a model for other states looking to promote sustainable agricultural practices.