More than 1,000 farmers in Coimbatore district are expected to benefit from a cowpea cultivation scheme designed to boost pulse production and encourage climate-resilient farming practices. The initiative, backed by a budget of Rs22.3 lakh, aims to promote the cultivation of cowpea, a short-duration pulse crop known for its low water requirements and high nutritional value.
Scheme Details and Benefits
District Agriculture Joint Director M Tamilselvi announced that the scheme has been sanctioned for Coimbatore to incentivize cowpea farming. Cowpea requires only about 350mm of water and is rich in protein and fiber, making it suitable for both human consumption and livestock fodder. The crop can be grown in two seasons, aligning with the region's rainfall pattern.
Coimbatore receives an average annual rainfall of 611mm, with approximately 135mm recorded in summer. The district is expected to receive nearly 88mm of rainfall in May this year. Moderate rainfall has already been reported in areas such as Mettupalayam, Annur, Madukkarai, Kinathukadavu, Periyanaickenpalayam, and Sulur.
Components of the Scheme
The scheme is being implemented across 12 blocks in the district and includes four major components:
- Seed Production Incentive: Farmers producing Vamban-3 and Vamban-4 cowpea seed varieties released within the last eight years and supplying them to agricultural extension centers will receive an incentive of Rs30 per kg. A sum of Rs3 lakh has been allocated for this component.
- Seed Distribution Subsidy: Farmers purchasing Vamban-3 and Vamban-4 seeds from agricultural extension centers for cultivation will receive a subsidy of Rs60 per kg. An allocation of Rs6 lakh has been made for this purpose.
- Training Programs: The department will provide three-phase training programs to 30 selected farmers at a cost of Rs2.7 lakh.
- Demonstration Plots: Block-level demonstration plots will be established with an assistance of Rs10,000 per hectare. Farmers will receive seeds, bio-fertilizers, pulse micronutrients, biological pesticides, and Trichoderma viride. Soil testing is mandatory for participation in the demonstration program, with Rs10 lakh earmarked for this component.
Implementation and Registration
The scheme is implemented under the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, with the goal of increasing pulse production through improved, climate-resilient seed varieties that deliver higher yields within a short duration. Tamilselvi urged farmers to approach their respective block assistant directors of agriculture to register and avail the benefits under the scheme. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance pulse cultivation in the district while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
