A Central Government scheme aimed at promoting horticulture and water conservation has emerged as a major driver of agricultural transformation in Sirsa over the past 12 years. The mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) has helped thousands of farmers shift from traditional farming to modern, water-efficient and more profitable cultivation practices.
District Horticulture Officer Deen Mohammad said from 2014 to March 31, 2026, a total of 10,684 farmers in Sirsa district were linked with the scheme. During this period, horticulture cultivation expanded across 17,434 hectares, while 2,531 water ponds were established. In addition, micro-irrigation systems were adopted on 8,541 hectares, leading to significant water saving and higher productivity.
He said the impact of the scheme was visible even in remote villages. Besides introducing the farmers to modern agricultural technologies, the mission had helped make farming more sustainable and economically rewarding.
Under the Individual Water Pond Scheme, the farmers receive up to 75 per cent financial assistance and can avail benefits for up to five hectares of land. The Community Water Pond Scheme requires the participation of at least three farmers and provides 100 per cent subsidy. The initiative has encouraged rainwater harvesting and created reliable sources of irrigation water.
Deen Mohammad said the farmers could also benefit from drip and sprinkler irrigation systems under the Micro-Irrigation Scheme for up to 12.5 acres. These technologies help save 50–60 per cent of water, making them crucial for the future of agriculture in water-stressed regions.
He described the mission as a successful campaign that had changed both the mindset of the farmers and their cultivation practices. Over the last decade, the scheme has encouraged the farmers to move beyond conventional farming and adopt scientific, market-oriented agriculture.
Sharing an example, he said the farmers in Kaluana block of Dabwali earlier cultivated crops such as taramira, which generated limited returns. However, many have now switched to kinnow orchards, resulting in a substantial increase in income. More than 1,000 acres in the area are currently under horticulture cultivation.
He said such success stories demonstrated how scientific horticulture practices and government support were helping increase the farmers’ incomes and strengthening the rural economy.
