Current Affairs

Sign in
EconomyGS3
GS3

UP farmers can apply for subsidies on drones and machinery

Source:freepressjournal ↗

Why It Matters

Important for UPPSC aspirants tracking state-specific agricultural welfare schemes, technology integration in farming (such as drone use), and rural development policies in Uttar Pradesh.

Summary

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced that farmers across the state can apply for financial subsidies on modern agricultural machinery, including drones and custom hiring centres, beginning October 7. The initiative aims to enhance farm mechanization, reduce labor dependency, and promote efficient crop residue management through the state agriculture portal.

Key Points

  • Farmers in Uttar Pradesh can apply for subsidies on agricultural machinery starting October 7.
  • The subsidy covers modern equipment including agricultural drones and establishment of Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs).
  • Applications are processed online through the state's agriculture department portal to promote transparency and farm mechanization.

Important Terms

Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)

A centrally sponsored scheme aimed at increasing farm productivity and efficiency by providing financial subsidies to farmers for purchasing modern agricultural machinery and equipment.

UPSC context

Important for UPPSC GS Paper-III (Agriculture, Farm Mechanization, and Govt Schemes). Tests knowledge of central sector interventions in rural development.

Source
Crop Residue Management Scheme

A central sector scheme addressing air pollution from stubble burning by providing financial assistance to farmers and Custom Hiring Centres for machinery used in managing crop residue.

UPSC context

Relevant for UPPSC GS Paper-III (Environment, Pollution Control, and Agricultural Schemes). Tests measures against stubble burning.

Source
Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Department

The nodal state government body responsible for implementing agricultural policies, distributing input subsidies, and managing digital portals for farmers in Uttar Pradesh.

UPSC context

Crucial for UPPSC Uttar Pradesh Special GK and GS Paper-V/VI (State Governance, Agriculture, and Welfare Schemes).

Source

Static Concepts Connected

Uttar Pradesh Agriculture & Rural Economy

What are the key institutional mechanisms and funding patterns under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)?

  • Central Scheme: SMAM is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at increasing farm mechanization in small and marginal holdings.
  • Equipment Support: It provides financial assistance to farmers for procuring tractors, power tillers, and specialized post-harvest equipment.
  • CHC Promotion: Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) are promoted to rent out costly machinery to farmers who cannot afford direct ownership.

Cross-Topic Patterns

  • Farm Mechanization & Direct Benefit Transfer

    Custom Hiring Centres and mechanization subsidies directly link UP's agrarian economy with DBT digital infrastructure and financial inclusion goals under PM-KISAN.

  • Agri-Drones & Women Empowerment SHGs

    Drone technology integration in UP agriculture intersects with national initiatives like Namo Drone Didi, empowering women SHGs in rural sectors.

UPPCS prelims frequently tests specific financial ceilings and portals for state schemes like CHC subsidies. Expect a numeric match-up.

Linked PYQs · 3

Linked PYQs · 3

  • 2025UPPSC_PRELIMSGS1

    Consider the following and arrange them in correct chronological order. 1. Food for work programme 2. Community Development Programme 3. Training for Rural Youth for Self Employment (TRYSEM) 4. Drought Prone Area Programme Select the correct answer from the code given below :

  • 2022UPPSC_PRELIMSGS1

    Which one of the following is the targeted group under the 'Pradhan Mantri Swandhi Scheme'?

  • 2023UPPSC_PRELIMSGS1

    Which of the following Scheme/Programme is not the Central Government Programme and it is Uttar Pradesh Government's Programme?