Patna: The Bihar Agriculture Department has launched a major initiative to promote the cultivation of Magahi and Desi betel leaves (paan) by offering financial assistance to farmers. Under the Paan Development Scheme, farmers will receive subsidies to expand cultivation, aiming to boost production and increase rural incomes.
Subsidy of ₹11,750 for Betel Leaf Cultivation
According to the Horticulture Directorate, farmers cultivating betel leaves will be eligible for a maximum subsidy of ₹11,750 per 100 square meters. This financial support is expected to encourage farmers to adopt and expand betel leaf farming, particularly for the GI-tagged Magahi paan, which is known for its quality and demand.
The initiative is designed to strengthen traditional farming practices while ensuring better income opportunities for farmers across the state.
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Application Process and Deadline
The application process for the scheme is already underway. Farmers can apply online between March 20 and April 20, 2026, through the official horticulture portal of the Bihar government.
To avail the benefits, farmers must:
- Complete online registration under the “Paan Development Scheme”
- Ensure DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) registration is completed
- Submit required details through the official website
The subsidy amount will be directly transferred to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts through DBT.
Scheme Covers 12 Key Districts
The scheme is being implemented in 12 districts of Bihar, focusing on expanding the cultivation area of Magahi and Desi paan. The eligible districts include:
- Aurangabad
- Gaya
- Sheikhpura
- Vaishali
- Nalanda
- Nawada
- Saran
- Bhagalpur
- Muzaffarpur
- Samastipur
- Munger
- Darbhanga
The program will run during the financial years 2025-26 to 2026-27, targeting regions where betel leaf cultivation has strong potential.
Beneficiary Selection Through Lottery System
Farmers will be selected through a lottery system, ensuring transparency in the allocation of benefits. Only one member per family will be eligible under the scheme.
While farmers will arrange for plantation materials and inputs themselves, the government will provide financial support through subsidies. For further guidance, farmers can contact their respective District Horticulture Officers.
Boost to Traditional Farming and Farmer Income
The Bihar government’s initiative is expected to:
- Expand the cultivation of Magahi and Desi paan
- Strengthen traditional agricultural practices
- Provide financial support to small and marginal farmers
- Increase farmers’ income and improve rural livelihoods
With growing demand for betel leaves in domestic and international markets, this scheme could play a vital role in positioning Bihar as a key hub for high-quality paan production.
Strengthening Bihar’s Agricultural Economy
The Paan Development Scheme reflects Bihar’s commitment to promoting specialty crops and farmer welfare. By supporting Magahi and Desi betel leaf cultivation, the state aims to preserve its agricultural heritage while creating sustainable income opportunities for farmers.
