Distribution of Certified Seeds of Maize

Description
The "Distribution of Certified Seeds of Maize" scheme by the Agriculture-Farmers Welfare Department, Tamil Nadu, is aimed at maize-growing farmers across selected districts in Tamil Nadu, offering a subsidy of the seed cost. The scheme ensures a 24% flow of benefits to SC/ST farmers and 20% to women farmers or women groups, with preference given to small and marginal farmers.

Benefits
• **Subsidy on Certified Seeds:** Farmers can receive 50% of the cost of certified maize seeds, with a cap of ₹1,200/- per quintal, whichever is less.

Eligibility Criteria
1. - The beneficiary should be a Farmer.
2. - The beneficiary should be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
3. - The beneficiary should be growing maize in the specified districts of Tamil Nadu: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, Perambalur, Virudhunagar, Theni, Villupuram, Vellore, Salem, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Sivagangai, Trichy, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi.
4. > **Note:** Preference will be given to Small/Marginal farmers 24% flow to SC/ST farmers will be ensured 20% flow to women farmers/ women groups.

Required Documents
• Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, etc.).
• Proof of land ownership or tenancy.
• Recent photograph.
• Caste certificate (for SC/ST applicants).
• Documents proving membership in women’s groups (if applicable).
• Bank account details.
• Any other documents (if required).

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the "Distribution of Certified Seeds of Maize" scheme?
A: The "Distribution of Certified Seeds of Maize" scheme is a state-sponsored initiative that provides a subsidy to maize-growing farmers in select districts of Tamil Nadu, helping them purchase certified maize seeds.

Q: Which districts are covered under this scheme?
A: The scheme covers the districts of Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, Perambalur, Virudhunagar, Theni, Villupuram, Vellore, Salem, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Sivagangai, Trichy, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi.

Q: How much subsidy is provided under this scheme?
A: Farmers can receive a subsidy covering 50% of the cost of certified maize seeds, with a maximum limit of [?]1,200/- per quintal.

Q: Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
A: The scheme is open to all maize-growing farmers in the specified districts, with priority given to small/marginal farmers, SC/ST farmers, and women farmers or women groups.

Q: How can farmers apply for the subsidy?
A: Farmers can apply by submitting their applications to the Assistant Agricultural Officer at the village level, the Agricultural Officer or Deputy Agricultural Officer at the block level, or the Joint Director of Agriculture at the district level.

Q: What documents are required to apply for this scheme?
A: Applicants must submit proof of identity, proof of land ownership or tenancy, a recent photograph, a caste certificate (for SC/ST applicants), and documents proving membership in women's groups (if applicable).

Q: Is there a deadline for applying for the subsidy?
A: The scheme does not specify a deadline, but it is advisable for farmers to apply as early as possible during the planting season.

Q: Is there a limit to the quantity of seeds that can be purchased under this scheme?
A: The scheme does not specify a limit on the quantity of seeds, but the subsidy is capped at [?]1,200/- per quintal.

Q: Are there special provisions for women farmers?
A: Yes, 20% of the scheme's benefits are reserved for women farmers or women groups.

Q: What benefits are available to SC/ST farmers under this scheme?
A: The scheme ensures that 24% of the benefits are reserved for SC/ST farmers.

Q: Can small or marginal farmers apply for this scheme?
A: Yes, the scheme gives preference to small and marginal farmers in the selection process.

Q: What role does the Agricultural Officer play in this scheme?
A: The Agricultural Officer at the block level assists in processing applications, verifying eligibility, and facilitating the distribution of subsidized seeds.