Punjab announces 50% subsidy on diggers for potato plantation

CHANDIGARH: In a bid to boost potato cultivation in Punjab, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today announced to enhance the subsidy on diggers, graders and planters from 10 per cent to 50 per cent.

A decision to this effect was taken by Badal during a meeting with a deputation of potato growers of the state, an official release said.

The Chief Minister apprised the delegation that the state government had already initiated the process for setting up of Indo-Dutch Potato and Seed Centre as a joint venture with Holland.

A Dutch team would visit India next month when all the modalities would be finalised in consultation with the Centre, Badal said.

He directed the Financial Commissioner Development to expedite the process and take up matter with the Centre for early setting up this centre.

On the demand of potato growers, Badal directed the Chairman, Powercom, to streamline the supply of electricity in all the potato growing areas of the state to ensure adequate day-time power supply for better yield.