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CM Pramod Sawant Announces Subsidy for Farm Labour – Exam Focus

The Goa government is considering a subsidy for agricultural labour to encourage farming in the state. This initiative, part of the Amrit Kaal Agriculture Policy, aims to assist farmers who rely on manual cultivation. Additionally, subsidies for mango cultivation and harvesting machines are being enhanced, making this a crucial topic for competitive exams.

What is the Subsidy for Agri Labour?
The Goa government, under CM Pramod Sawant, is evaluating a financial aid scheme to help farmers hire labour for field cultivation. Key highlights include:
Support for Manual Farming: Some regions (like Saligao) require hand cultivation due to terrain constraints.
Harvesting Machine Subsidy: Currently, farmers pay per hour for machinery; the govt may increase subsidies to cover longer usage.
Mancurad Mango Promotion: A Rs 600 subsidy per pit is given for planting these trees, with additional incentives for rocky-area cultivation.
Rice & Coconut Subsidies: The govt offers Rs 2/kg extra support price for rice and 50% subsidy on coconut sales (Rs 15 per piece).

Why is This Important for Exams?
Questions on government subsidies, agricultural policies, and state-specific schemes frequently appear in:
UPSC (GS-III: Economy & Agriculture)
SSC & PSC (General Awareness)
KAS (Karnataka Administrative Services)
NABARD/RBI Grade B (Rural Development Topics)
Understanding these updates helps in MCQs, essays, and interviews.

Questions & Answers on Agri Labour
Q1. What is the purpose of Goa’s proposed agri-labour subsidy?
Ans: To reduce farmers’ costs in hiring labour for manual cultivation, especially in areas where machines cannot be used.
Q2. Which mango variety is promoted under Goa’s subsidy scheme?
Ans: Mancurad mangoes, with Rs 600/pit subsidy and Rs 2 lakh/hectare aid for rocky terrain.
Q3. Why did Saligao MLA Kedar Naik demand a higher subsidy for harvesting machines?
Ans: Because farmers currently pay hourly rates, and completing fieldwork takes at least 1.5 hours, increasing expenses.
Q4. What additional support does Goa provide for rice farmers?
Ans: Rs 2/kg subsidy on top of MSP and plans for a state-run rice mill to reduce interstate travel.
Q5. How might this policy impact Goa’s agricultural economy?
Ans: It could boost local farming, reduce dependency on imports, and preserve ancestral crops like mancurad mangoes.