Government Subsidy for Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Systems: Get up to 60% Assistance
Water conservation is a crucial aspect of modern agriculture, especially in states like Karnataka where farmers face seasonal drought and inconsistent rainfall. To support sustainable farming practices, the Government of India, in collaboration with state governments, provides subsidies for drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Under these schemes, eligible farmers can receive up to 60% subsidy on the installation cost of micro-irrigation systems.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on the benefits, eligibility, and step-by-step application process for availing government subsidies on drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
What Are Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Systems?
Drip Irrigation is a method of watering crops by delivering water directly to the plant’s roots in small, steady amounts. It minimizes water wastage and enhances soil moisture efficiency.
Sprinkler Irrigation mimics rainfall by spraying water across the field. It is ideal for crops like vegetables, fruits, and pulses, and works well on uneven land.
Why the Government is Promoting Micro-Irrigation
The government is encouraging the adoption of micro-irrigation through subsidies because it:
- Reduces water usage by 30% to 50%
- Increases crop yield
- Saves electricity and labor
- Minimizes weed growth
- Ensures uniform water distribution
This initiative is part of larger national schemes like Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) and Per Drop More Crop.
Drip and Sprinkler Subsidy Details (Up to 60%)
Central Government Contribution:
Under PMKSY, the central government provides up to 55% subsidy for small and marginal farmers and up to 45% for others.
State Government Contribution:
States like Karnataka top up the subsidy, making it up to 60% or more in total support, especially for SC/ST and smallholder farmers.
Cost Sharing:
| Farmer Category | Subsidy Percentage |
|---|---|
| Small & Marginal | Up to 60% |
| General Category | 45% – 55% |
| SC/ST Farmers | 60% or higher |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the subsidy, the applicant must:
- Be a resident farmer of India (state-wise implementation)
- Own agricultural land with a valid RTC or land document
- Have a functioning water source (well, borewell, canal, or tank)
- Be ready to adopt micro-irrigation practices
- Have an Aadhaar-linked bank account
Priority is given to:
- Small and marginal farmers
- Women farmers
- SC/ST category farmers
- Farmers using renewable energy pumps
Documents Required
Here is a list of documents needed for application:
- Aadhaar card
- RTC (Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops)
- Bank passbook copy
- Passport-size photograph
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Land ownership documents
- Water source proof
- Quotation from authorized vendor
Online Application Process (Karnataka Example)
Farmers in Karnataka can apply for drip/sprinkler irrigation subsidies through the Department of Horticulture or Agriculture via the Raitha Samparka Kendra or online platforms.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to https://horticulture.karnataka.gov.in or https://pmksy.gov.in (for national-level info).
Step 2: Farmer Registration
If you are not registered, create a farmer profile using:
- Aadhaar number
- Mobile number
- Land details
Step 3: Select the Micro-Irrigation Component
Choose “Drip Irrigation” or “Sprinkler Irrigation” based on your land and crop type.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Quotation
Upload necessary documents and a quotation from an authorized dealer/vendor.
Step 5: Inspection and Approval
The Department will inspect your land. Once approved, you will receive a go-ahead to install the system.
Step 6: Installation by Approved Vendor
Install the irrigation system through a registered company/vendor.
Step 7: Final Verification and Subsidy Release
After another inspection, the subsidy amount (up to 60%) is directly transferred to your bank account.
Offline Application Method
For those who prefer in-person application:
- Visit your nearest Raitha Samparka Kendra (RSK).
- Collect the application form for PMKSY micro-irrigation scheme.
- Fill in the form and attach photocopies of required documents.
- Submit to the officer in charge for verification.
- Wait for field inspection and follow the same installation and approval process.
Benefits of Using Drip and Sprinkler Systems
- Water Efficiency: Saves up to 50% water compared to flood irrigation.
- Increased Yield: Better moisture control leads to healthier crops.
- Cost Savings: Reduced electricity bills and labor costs.
- Fertilizer Efficiency: Fertigation is easier and more effective.
- Improved Soil Health: Avoids waterlogging and erosion.
Crops Suitable for Drip Irrigation
- Vegetables (tomato, brinjal, chili)
- Fruits (mango, banana, grapes, pomegranate)
- Spices (turmeric, coriander)
- Plantation crops (coffee, coconut, areca nut)
- Flowers (jasmine, rose)
Crops Suitable for Sprinkler Irrigation
- Pulses (green gram, red gram)
- Groundnut
- Onion and garlic
- Cereal crops (maize, wheat)
- Fodder crops
Top Registered Vendors for Karnataka Farmers
Here are some certified suppliers in Karnataka (check with RSK for updated list):
- Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd.
- Netafim Irrigation India Pvt. Ltd.
- Finolex Plasson
- Kaveri Micro Irrigation
- Premier Irrigation Equipment Ltd.
Note: Only use government-approved vendors to be eligible for the subsidy.
Success Stories from Karnataka
Many farmers in Karnataka have successfully adopted drip and sprinkler systems and improved their productivity:
- A farmer in Koppal district increased his pomegranate yield by 35% using drip irrigation.
- A woman farmer in Hassan saved ₹20,000 annually on labor and water bills after switching to sprinkler irrigation.
- Farmers in Chitradurga reported better crop health during dry seasons due to moisture retention.
Monitoring and Follow-up
After receiving the subsidy, the department may conduct:
- Random field inspections
- Review of water usage and crop health
- Vendor performance audits
Ensure that your system is maintained properly and used efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can tenant farmers apply?
A. Yes, with permission letter from the landowner and valid lease documents.
Q. Can I use solar pumps with the irrigation system?
A. Yes, and you may qualify for a separate solar pump subsidy.
Q. Can I apply for both drip and sprinkler?
A. Yes, depending on your land and crop pattern, you can apply for both systems on different plots.
Q. Is there a limit on land area?
A. Subsidy is generally available up to a certain acreage (2–5 hectares). Larger farms may get reduced percentages.
Q. How long does it take to receive the subsidy?
A. After final inspection and document submission, the subsidy is usually credited within 60–90 days.
To apply for the drip and sprinkler irrigation subsidy in Karnataka, you can use the following official resources:
🌐 Online Application Portals
-
Karnataka Horticulture Department: https://horticulture.karnataka.gov.in
-
PMKSY Karnataka Micro-Irrigation Portal: https://kkisan.karnataka.gov.in/Citizen/ApplicationEntryMI.aspxnetafimindia.com+1YouTube+1
These portals allow farmers to register and apply for subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and state-specific schemes.
✅ Apply now ✅
For a step-by-step guide on the application process, you can refer to the official user manual:
-
User Manual for Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Registration: https://hasiru.karnataka.gov.in/usermanual.pdfhasiru.karnataka.gov.in
This manual provides detailed instructions on how to fill out the application forms, required documents, and the submission process.
Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, such as Aadhaar card, land ownership documents, bank passbook, and a quotation from an authorized vendor, before starting your application.
If you need assistance with the application process or have further questions, feel free to ask.
The government’s subsidy on drip and sprinkler irrigation systems is a major step toward sustainable agriculture. By adopting micro-irrigation, farmers can conserve water, increase yield, and reduce costs. With up to 60% subsidy available, this is the right time for Karnataka farmers to modernize their irrigation practices.
If you are a farmer looking to improve productivity and reduce dependency on rainfall, apply today through your Raitha Samparka Kendra or the Horticulture Department’s portal.
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