In view of sporadic rains due to weak monsoon, the government has sanctioned Rs 457.60 lakh for free distribution of toria seeds (rapeseeds) across the state where the kharif crop has been damaged because of lack of rains.

The decision was taken in a UP cabinet meeting held here on Tuesday. Finance Minister Suresh Khanna said that in view of the weak monsoon, there are many areas where kharif crop has not been sown so far. To compensate for the loss, the government has decided to distribute free seed minikits of toria among the farmers. “Priority will be given to small and marginal farmers,” the minister said.

He said that under this scheme, 2 kg of toria seeds will be distributed free of cost. The distribution will be carried out in the presence of panchayat members and other public representatives to ensure transparency.

“Free seeds will be distributed among 25 per cent of the SC/ST farmers while 75 per cent to others. Efforts will be made to ensure participation of 30 per cent women farmers,” Khanna said. With the implementation of the scheme, farmers will get an average benefit of Rs 8,000 per hectare.

2,100 more tubewells

The cabinet also approved a sum of Rs 84,198.83 lakh (including GST) for setting up of 2,100 new state tubewells in 62 districts.

In view of the demand of public representatives and local farmers to increase irrigation, the government decided to set up 2,100 new state tubewells. “There is no plan to install tubewells in any dark or gray block,” the minister said.