PANAJI
"Sir, the exact area of khazan fields is not available. However, the estimated area is 14000 hactares. Government has done the survey of fallow lands including khazan lands in the State through National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur and the report is awaited," stated Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai in a written reply to the State Legislative Assembly.
Pointing out that the Government desires to put agriculture in khazan lands back into place in a phased manner, he said, adding "50 per cent subsidy on hire charges of agricultural machinery is provided on tillage operation at source. Additionally, strengthening of bund, desilting of ponds, farm roads for protecting Khazan lands is also carried out."
Nonetheless, the government under state sector scheme - Revitalization of Khazan lands -
provides Korgut paddy seed free of cost.
"The seed produced by these farmers is purchased back at a premium rate of Rs 26 per kilo and is circulated again to new farmers during kharif season so that there is increase in area under khazan paddy."
"Also the farmers are advised to follow proper package of practices so that they get proper yield of 1.5 MT to 2.00 MT/ha of korgut paddy," the agriculture
minister stated.
