Himachal Government’s ‘Dung Prosperity Scheme’ Brings Economic Relief to Farmers
In a significant step towards supporting farmers and cattle herders, the Himachal Pradesh government has launched the ‘Dung Prosperity Scheme,’ buying dung at a rate of ₹3 per kg (₹300 per quintal). This initiative aims to provide financial aid to farmers while promoting natural fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
Under this scheme, three residents of Joginder Nagar’s Seri village—Laxman Das, Bhag Chand, and Sanjeev Kumar—have reaped the benefits. Each of them sold between four and four-and-a-half quintals of dung through the Agriculture Department and received direct financial transfers to their bank accounts.
Farmers Share Their Experiences
Laxman Das, one of the beneficiaries, shared that the government purchased 4 quintals of dung from him, and ₹1,200 was deposited into his bank account. “This is a commendable step by the government. It not only provides economic benefits to farmers like me but also promotes the use of natural fertilizers,” he said.
Similarly, Bhag Chand Thakur expressed his gratitude for the initiative, stating, “The purchase of dung benefits farmers and cattle herders while promoting the production of organic manure and vermicompost. The ₹1,350 I received for selling four-and-a-half quintals of dung will help reduce my dependence on chemical fertilizers.”
Another beneficiary, Sanjeev Kumar, also praised the scheme, stating that he sold three-and-a-half quintals of dung and received ₹1,050 in his account. He highlighted how this initiative would help farmers save on fertilizer costs and improve crop quality with healthier, natural produce.
Encouraging Sustainable Farming
The ‘Dung Prosperity Scheme’ not only provides farmers with a reliable income stream but also supports the preparation of eco-friendly natural fertilizers, reducing reliance on chemical alternatives. Beneficiaries emphasized that the scheme would lower fertilizer expenses and improve soil health, ensuring healthier and more organic crops.
Government and Expert Insights
Sonam Kumari, Subject Specialist (Agriculture) at Padhar, explained that dung collected under the scheme is being utilized for the seed multiplication farm in Joginder Nagar. She added that all beneficiaries received their payments directly into their bank accounts, ensuring transparency.
SDM Joginder Nagar, Manish Chaudhary, stated that instructions have been issued to ensure widespread awareness of the scheme. “Efforts are being made to inform more farmers and cattle herders about this initiative so that they can benefit from it,” he said.
A Step Towards Sustainability
The ‘Dung Prosperity Scheme’ is a win-win for both farmers and the environment. By providing financial incentives for dung collection, the government is not only supporting rural livelihoods but also promoting sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations.
