Fruit Development Scheme helps farmers in Meghalaya improve their orchards by providing high quality planting materials, horticultural tools, and trellis systems at highly subsidized or free rates. Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya offers this scheme to make essential farming resources affordable and easy to access for genuine cultivators.
In 2026 the scheme continues to support fruit cultivation across the state. Farmers who grow fruit crops can get good quality planting materials at a 50% subsidy, and in some cases free of cost under the MGNREGA convergence mode. The scheme also covers citrus orchard rejuvenation and permanent trellis systems for creeper plants like kiwi and grapes.
Fruit Development Scheme - Introduction
Fruit Development Scheme is a state level scheme launched by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya. Its main aim is to boost the local economy and improve orchard productivity by making sure farmers get superior quality planting materials. Whether through convergent schemes or direct subsidies, the scheme gives the required support for a good harvest.
The scheme is open to bonafide farmers of Meghalaya who are actively engaged in agriculture. It works on a first come first serve basis, so applying early improves the chances of getting the benefit. Farmers can also check the full list of related state schemes on the Meghalaya government schemes page.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Fruit Development Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | Meghalaya |
| Category | Agriculture, Rural & Environment |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual Farmers |
| Sub Category | Agricultural Inputs |
| Benefit Type | Composite |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Agriculture Department |
| Implementing Agency | Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya |
Benefits
The scheme provides different levels of support to help farmers run a successful fruit cultivation project. The assistance depends on the type of crop and the activity being carried out. Here is the support available under the scheme:
| Category | Assistance Details |
|---|---|
| General Planting Materials | 50% subsidy on sale prices, or free through MGNREGA convergence. |
| Citrus Rejuvenation | 100% assistance for materials to revive old orchards and organic plant protection. |
| Trellis System (Kiwi/Grapes) | 75% subsidy for permanent structures, limited to 500 sqm per farmer. |
Eligibility
To take part in the scheme, a farmer needs to meet a few basic conditions. These rules make sure the benefit reaches genuine cultivators of the state. The main points are given below:
- Applicant should be a permanent resident of Meghalaya.
- Applicant must be a bonafide farmer actively engaged in agriculture.
- Applicant should own or hold a valid lease for at least 0.2 hectares of land.
Note: Benefits are provided on a first come first serve basis, so it is best to apply early.
Application Process
The application process for Fruit Development Scheme is simple and does not need any online registration. Farmers can follow the steps given below to apply.
STEP 1 - Draft a simple application on plain paper expressing the intent to join the scheme.
STEP 2 - Keep copies of land documents, identity proof, and bank details ready.
STEP 3 - Submit the signed application and documents to the local Horticulture Development Officer at the nearest CD Block or Horticulture Circle office.
STEP 4 - Selection is handled directly by the officials on a first come first serve basis.
Documents
Applicants should carry the following documents while submitting the application. Keeping these ready helps avoid delays in the selection process.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Valid identity proof such as Aadhaar or Voter ID.
- Bank passbook showing account details.
- Proof of land ownership or a signed lease agreement confirming the 0.2 hectares minimum requirement.
References
Official Website of the Department of Agriculture, Meghalaya
District Horticulture Officer contact portal
FAQ's
What is the primary goal of the Fruit Development Scheme?
The main goal is to supply farmers with premium planting materials and tools at subsidized rates to improve fruit production across Meghalaya.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya manages and implements this scheme.
What specific help is available for citrus farmers?
The scheme offers 100% assistance for citrus rejuvenation programs, providing materials for gap filling and organic-based protection for orchards.
Are there specific rules for trellis systems?
Yes, for climbers like kiwi and grapes, the scheme covers 75% of the costs for permanent trellis systems, up to 500 sqm, though the farmer is responsible for the actual planting and construction work.
How can I find the Agriculture office to apply?
You can visit the District Horticulture Officer contact portal to locate the nearest circle office.