Government Scheme Offers Up to ₹10 Lakh Subsidy: Start a Nursery, Boost Farm Income

To increase the income of farmers and rural youth, the state government has launched an important initiative under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). Through the Small Nursery Scheme, farmers and rural residents can now set up plant nurseries on limited land and earn a steady income. The scheme offers a government subsidy of up to ₹10 lakh for establishing nurseries.

Not Just Farmers, Common Citizens Can Also Benefit:

The Bihar government has made it clear that this scheme is not limited to farmers alone. Women, rural youth, self-help groups, and general citizens are also eligible to avail its benefits. The initiative is expected to promote self-employment in rural areas while encouraging green and sustainable development.

What Is the Small Nursery Scheme?

Under this scheme, financial assistance is provided for setting up nurseries of fruit plants, flowering plants, shade trees, and medicinal plants. Due to its low investment requirement, simple process, and strong government support, the scheme is gaining rapid popularity among rural entrepreneurs.

Why the Scheme Was Introduced:

Traditional farming often provides limited income. To address this, the government aims to encourage farmers to move beyond rice and wheat cultivation and adopt horticulture and plant production as alternative income sources. This approach not only increases earnings but also reduces farming risks.

Key Benefits for Farmers and Rural Youth:

1. Employment opportunities with low investment
2. Ability to start a business from home or backyard
3. Direct government subsidy and technical support
4. Strong self-employment options for women and youth
5. Promotion of environmental conservation and greenery

Subsidy Amount and Payment Structure:

The government has fixed the project cost at ₹20 lakh per hectare, out of which:

1. 50% subsidy, up to a maximum of ₹10 lakh, will be provided
2. First installment: ₹6 lakh (60%)
3. Second installment: ₹4 lakh (40%)
4. The subsidy amount will be transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through DBT.

Where to Purchase Plants:

1. Government nurseries (Horticulture/Forest Department)
2. Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
3. Government supply centers at block or panchayat level

How to Start a Small Nursery:

1. Select a location: Courtyard, farmland, or vacant land
2. Choose plants: Mango, guava, lemon, papaya, rose, marigold, tulsi
3. Planting & care: Use polybags, ensure regular irrigation and shade
4. Sales: Sell plants in local markets or through government schemes

Easy Online Application Process:

1. Visit the official website: horticulture.bihar.gov.in
2. Click on the link “Establishment of Small Nursery”
3. Fill in the required details and upload documents
4. After district-level verification, the subsidy will be released
5. Last date to apply: 25 January 2026

(FAQs):

Q1. Who can apply for the Small Nursery Scheme?
Farmers, women, rural youth, SHGs, and general citizens of Bihar are eligible.

Q2. What is the maximum subsidy amount?
Up to ₹10 lakh under the MIDH scheme.

Q3. What types of plants are allowed?
Fruit, flower, medicinal, and shade plants like mango, guava, rose, tulsi, etc.

Q4. How is the subsidy paid?
Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in two installments.

Q5. Where can I get quality planting material?
From government nurseries, KVKs, and authorized supply centers.