Floriculture Development Scheme supports farmers in Meghalaya by providing subsidies on high-quality planting materials and free polyhouses to turn flower cultivation into a profitable commercial venture. Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of Meghalaya runs this scheme for farmers who want to grow traditional and non-traditional flowers as a full-time income source.
The scheme is open for all categories of farmers within Meghalaya. Farmers get quality planting material at a 50% subsidy and a low-cost polyhouse free of cost with a minimum area of 100 sqm per unit. Along with this, organic fertilizers, micronutrients, plant protection chemicals and drip irrigation support are also provided to make sure the harvest succeeds.
Floriculture Development Scheme - Introduction
Floriculture means the art and knowledge of growing flowers to perfection. In Meghalaya, flower growing was mostly a hobby for a long time, but the high cost of planting materials and the growing demand for cut flowers has changed the picture. Farmers now see the commercial side of flower farming, and this scheme helps them take it up in a serious way.
Meghalaya has a very wide range of climatic conditions, which makes it a good place for almost every type of flower. The state also has one of the richest collections of wild orchids in the country. This scheme uses these natural advantages to help farmers earn more from low-volume, high-value crops.
Each polyhouse unit acts as a demonstration for the area, and the department gives technical guidelines through extension and training. Crop selection is based on market demand and popularity. Recommended crops include orchids, chrysanthemums, gerberas, carnations, liliums, gladiolus, roses, statice and many flowering shrubs and house plants.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Floriculture Development Scheme |
| State | Meghalaya |
| Beneficiary | Individual farmers |
| Category | Agriculture |
| Assistance Type | Composite |
| DBT | No |
| Nodal Department | Agriculture Department |
| Application Mode | Offline |
Benefits
This scheme encourages farmers to grow low-volume, high-value crops to raise their earnings. The support given under the scheme is listed below:
| Item | Subsidy/Benefit |
|---|---|
| Flower Planting Materials | 50% subsidy |
| Low-Cost Polyhouse | Free (minimum 100 sqm per unit) |
| Drip Irrigation | Rs. 262 per sqm |
Farmers also get organic fertilizers, essential micronutrients, eco-friendly plant protection chemicals and drip irrigation systems to make sure the harvest is successful. The department also runs a floriculture nursery and a tissue culture laboratory at the Government Fruit Garden in Shillong, which supplies planting material and training to interested farmers.
Eligibility
All categories of farmers within Meghalaya can apply for this scheme. To be selected as a beneficiary, a farmer needs to meet the following criteria:
- Farmer should be a permanent resident of Meghalaya and a bonafide farmer engaged in agricultural activities.
- Farmer should own or possess at least 0.2 hectares of land and show a willingness to invest in future expansion of planting materials and infrastructure.
- Preference is given to progressive farmers and entrepreneurs who are ready to invest in non-food crops and have some familiarity with ornamental crops.
Application Process
Application for Floriculture Development Scheme is done offline through the local horticulture office. Follow these steps to apply:
STEP 1 - Draft an application on a plain sheet of paper expressing interest to take part in the scheme.
STEP 2 - Gather copies of all required documents and self-attest them if asked.
STEP 3 - Submit the signed application along with the documents to the Horticulture Development Officer at the nearest CD Block or Horticulture Circle office.
Beneficiaries are selected based on their commitment to long-term floriculture development and their available land holding. For help, farmers can reach out to the District Horticulture Officer or the local Horticulture Development Officer.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready before applying:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Valid identity proof
- Bank passbook or account details
- Documents confirming possession of agricultural land
- Any other relevant documents requested by the local office
References
Official Floriculture Scheme Page | Official Website | Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
What is the main aim of Floriculture Development Scheme?
It motivates farmers to take up flower cultivation as a profitable commercial venture by providing inputs like planting materials and polyhouses.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, looks after this scheme.
What support will a farmer get?
A farmer gets a 50% subsidy on quality planting materials and a free polyhouse (minimum 100 sqm), along with organic fertilizers, micronutrients and drip irrigation kits.
Who can apply?
Any bonafide farmer who is a permanent resident of Meghalaya and has at least 0.2 hectares of land can apply.
How does a farmer submit the application?
A written application has to be submitted to the nearest Horticulture Development Officer at the local CD Block or Horticulture Circle office.
Whom should a farmer contact for more help?
The local District Horticulture Officer or the Horticulture Development Officer in the area can be contacted for any help.