In a major step toward transforming Assam’s agricultural landscape, the state government has unveiled a new subsidy-driven initiative aimed at modernizing farming practices and boosting crop productivity. Launched by the Agriculture Department under the National Food Security Mission and the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm, the scheme offers a 50% subsidy on a range of modern farm equipment.
The focus is on enhancing the cultivation efficiency of key crops like paddy and pulses by reducing manual labor and equipping farmers with advanced machinery. Officials expect the move to help cut down post-harvest losses and improve overall yield, particularly in rural and economically weaker farming communities.
Under the scheme, individual farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and collective farming bodies such as Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) are eligible to apply. Interested beneficiaries must submit their applications directly to their respective Agriculture Department offices.
The selection process will follow a first-come, first-served basis, with early applicants given processing priority. The department has encouraged prompt participation, stressing that timely application is essential to maximize the benefits of this state-supported agricultural upgrade.
District-Level Support Also Gains Momentum
In addition to the statewide machinery subsidy scheme, individual districts are launching complementary initiatives to support the farming community. Earlier in May, Dhubri district introduced the “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan” — a pre-Kharif season campaign designed to raise awareness and educate farmers on sustainable practices and government support schemes.
The campaign is being implemented in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare under the central government. Through field demonstrations and outreach, the programme aims to empower farmers with updated agricultural knowledge and resource access.
Tractor and Equipment Distribution in Dhemaji
In a related effort to bolster mechanization at the grassroots level, Assam’s Education Minister Ranoj Pegu earlier this year distributed vital farm machinery to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Dhemaji. The event, held in February under the Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP), saw the handover of 15 tractors, 18 power tillers, power weeders, and paddy threshers.
This support to SHGs is expected to benefit small and marginal farmers by easing their access to equipment that can reduce labor intensity and improve field efficiency.
Path Forward
With schemes like the 50% machinery subsidy now active and district-led outreach programs running parallel, the Assam government appears committed to empowering farmers through modernization. These developments mark a promising chapter in the state’s agricultural growth story — one focused on sustainability, self-reliance, and scientific cultivation
