The Bihar government has approved a Rs 1.26 crore budget for the Dragon Fruit Development Scheme, to be implemented over two years—from FY 2025–26 to 2026–27—across 23 districts of the state. The Agriculture Department will oversee the execution of the project, with a transparent farmer selection process conducted through an online lottery.
Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said Rs 76.14 lakh has already been released for the financial year 2025–26 under the initiative. The scheme aims to promote dragon fruit cultivation, expand the production area, and boost farmers’ incomes—especially targeting small and marginal cultivators.
The government will provide a 40 per cent subsidy—Rs 2.70 lakh per hectare—in two instalments (60:40 ratio), with the first instalment of Rs 1.62 lakh and the second of Rs 1.08 lakh.
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The scheme is seen as a significant move to diversify horticulture and encourage innovative farming practices in Bihar, ultimately enhancing agricultural sustainability and rural income.