Papaya Cultivation Becomes a Source of Income for Farmers with Support from the National Horticulture Mission

With Assistance from the National Horticulture Mission
Farmer Vijay Kumar Devangan of Balod District Becomes a Successful Example of Advanced Horticulture

Raipur, Nov 2025 : Vijay Kumar Devangan, a farmer from village Bichhibahra in Gurur development block of Balod district, has set a new example of economic stability by adopting papaya cultivation under the National Horticulture Mission. Vijay, who considered farming as his primary livelihood, earlier practiced traditional vegetable farming. However, the information and subsidy provided by the Horticulture Department encouraged him to take a step toward modern fruit cultivation.

Subsidy Information Changed His Outlook, Gave Farming a New Dimension

After learning about the subsidies available for fruit plant cultivation from the Horticulture Department, Vijay decided to avail the Fruit Area Expansion Scheme under the National Horticulture Mission. In the year 2025–26, he started papaya cultivation on 6 acres of land. The department also granted him a subsidy of ₹36,000 for 2 hectares, which provided financial support for this new initiative.

Expected Profit of Up to ₹10 Lakhs from 700 Quintals of Production

Hard work, technical guidance, and timely decisions have today yielded visible results. Vijay shared that he is producing nearly 700 quintals of papaya this season. Based on the current market rate of ₹15 per kg, he expects to earn approximately ₹10.50 lakh. According to him, papaya has proven to be far more profitable than other traditional crops.

A Source of Inspiration for Farmers in the Region

The success of Vijay Kumar Devangan has inspired many other farmers in the region. He said that the support of the Horticulture Department has been extremely beneficial for him, and he plans to utilize other schemes of the department to further expand his agricultural activities. The financial strength gained through papaya cultivation has proven that innovation, proper guidance, and effective use of government schemes can bring significant positive changes in farmers’ lives.