“Bihar’s government is driving a green revolution with substantial subsidies for organic farming, targeting 38 districts. The state has extended its Organic Corridor Scheme to 2025, offering farmers Rs 11,500 per acre initially and additional support for vermicompost units. Despite challenges like low yields, the initiative aims to enhance soil health, reduce costs, and increase farmers’ incomes through sustainable practices.”
Bihar’s Push for Organic Farming Gains Momentum with Subsidies
In a significant move to transform its agricultural landscape, Bihar’s government is intensifying its focus on organic farming through robust subsidies and policy support. As of June 2025, the state has extended its ambitious Organic Corridor Scheme, initially launched along the Ganga, to run until the end of the year. This initiative, covering 13 districts including Patna, Buxar, Bhagalpur, and Nalanda, aims to convert 20,000 acres into fully organic zones compliant with the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP). Currently, 17,507 acres are under organic cultivation, monitored by the Bihar State Biological Mission.
Farmers are being incentivized with a grant of Rs 11,500 per acre in the first year, followed by Rs 6,500 per acre in the second and third years. Additionally, the state is promoting vermicompost production with a 50% subsidy, capped at Rs 5,000 per unit, and up to Rs 6.4 lakh for commercial vermicompost units, disbursed in three installments. The scheme also includes a 75% subsidy for isolation and refrigerated vans to support the transport of organic produce, alongside the establishment of Common Facility Centers to streamline operations.
The state’s broader vision, outlined in the Fourth Agricultural Road Map, extends organic farming to all 38 districts, backed by a Rs 155 crore allocation for 2020-21, though budgetary cuts in subsequent years (Rs 145 crore for 2021-22 and 2022-23) have sparked concerns. Agriculture Minister Kumar Sarvajeet emphasized the government’s commitment to chemical-free farming, stating that around 40,000 farmers are currently engaged in organic practices along the Ganga corridor. Plans are underway to establish vermicompost units, biogas plants, and biotech labs in public-private partnerships across all districts, with subsidies reaching up to 90% for select initiatives.
Despite the enthusiasm, challenges persist. Farmers like Rajeshwar Patel from Vaishali report that the Rs 11,500 per acre grant is insufficient, covering only half the input costs of Rs 22,000-23,000 per season. The mandate to use NPOP-approved organic fertilizers, which are pricier than market alternatives, adds financial strain. Low yields and limited market access for organic produce further hinder profitability, prompting experts to call for enhanced training and better market linkages.
The state’s efforts align with national schemes like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), which supports organic inputs and certification. Success stories, such as Ram Prasad Yadav from Muzaffarpur, highlight the potential of organic farming to reduce costs and fetch premium prices in urban and export markets. Bihar’s push for organic farming, if backed by improved infrastructure and training, could position the state as a leader in India’s sustainable agriculture movement.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports from government sources, media publications like Hindustan Times, The Hindu, and Drishti IAS, and real-time data as of June 2025. Information is subject to change as new developments emerge. Always verify details with official agricultural departments or schemes before making decisions.