The Bihar government has rolled out the Lady Rosetta Potato Expansion Scheme, offering farmers a substantial subsidy of up to 75%. Announced on September 3, 2025, this ambitious initiative aims to not only enhance potato cultivation across the state but also to strengthen the burgeoning agri-processing sector and significantly raise farmers’ incomes. The scheme is poised to meet the increasing demand for quality potatoes, particularly from the processing industry.

Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha unveiled the details of the scheme, confirming its implementation across 17 districts. These districts include Aurangabad, Banka, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Gopalganj, Katihar, Khagaria, Lakhisarai, Nalanda, Nawada, Patna, Samastipur, Saran, Sheikhpura, Siwan, and Vaishali. Farmers in these designated regions are set to receive comprehensive financial support for both seed purchase and cultivation activities.

The scheme outlines specific financial provisions to ensure maximum benefit for participating farmers. The cost of seed per hectare has been fixed at 30 quintals, with a price ceiling of ₹4,000 per quintal. When considering seeds and other necessary inputs, the total unit cost per hectare is set at ₹1,25,150. Out of this, farmers will receive a substantial subsidy of ₹93,863. This financial aid will be disbursed in two installments: an initial ₹70,397 will support the purchase of inputs, while the remaining ₹23,466 will be provided subsequent to a thorough field inspection and verification process.

Cultivation under the Lady Rosetta Potato Expansion Scheme is scheduled to align with the Rabi season, with potato sowing commencing in late October or early November. To guarantee higher productivity and promote sustainable farming practices, farmers will be supplied with tissue culture-derived breeder seed (G-3). The distribution of these high-quality seeds will be meticulously managed by district-level horticulture officials, ensuring efficient and timely access for all eligible farmers.

This strategic intervention by the Bihar government is expected to yield multiple benefits. By providing crucial financial support and access to superior quality seeds, the scheme is anticipated to significantly boost potato yields and, consequently, farmers’ incomes. Furthermore, it aims to fortify the supply chain for the state’s agri-processing industry, ensuring a consistent availability of suitable potato varieties. The initiative marks a crucial step in promoting agricultural advancement and economic stability in Bihar’s rural communities.