CHANDIGARH, Jan 17— Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini on Saturday authorized the release of 858 crore in financial aid to beneficiaries across Haryana, with the lion’s share of 659 crore dedicated to agricultural grants. The funds, distributed via direct bank transfers, aim to bolster rural incomes and incentivize sustainable farming practices ahead of the next growing season.
The agricultural payout covers five distinct programs, including 461.75 crore awarded to over 5.5 lakh farmers for refraining from burning crop residue. Additionally, the state provided 85.10 crore in subsidies for residue management machinery and 75.54 crore for those adopting the direct sowing of paddy. Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana noted that these measures are intended to make farming a “future-proof” profession for the next generation.
“The government follows the principle of supporting farmers at every level, from seed to market,” the Chief Minister said during the event.
Beyond agriculture, the state released the third installment of the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, totaling 181 crore. Officials mentioned that the eligibility for this women-centric scheme has been expanded starting January 2026. Families with an annual income of up to 1.80 lakh are now eligible, a significant increase from the previous 1 lakh limit.
The Chief Minister directly said that the scheme now also rewards mothers of high-achieving students in government schools and those whose children have overcome malnutrition. From February, the monthly assistance of 2,100 will be split, with 1,100 going to savings accounts and 1,000 into fixed deposits to ensure long-term financial security for women.
