Sub-Mission on Agricultural Extension (SMAE)

Description
The scheme “Sub-Mission on Agricultural Extension” is implemented by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Uttarakhand. The scheme aims to promote the adoption of modern and scientific farming practices among farmers across the state through continuous training, practical demonstrations, and exposure visits.

Exclusions
• <br>

Benefits
• Farmers are periodically trained in modern agricultural practices. Agricultural exhibitions, fairs, and farmer seminars are organized, and farmers are also taken on exposure visits to enhance their knowledge and skills. Additionally, farmer–scientist interactions are conducted to facilitate the exchange of ideas and innovations.
• **Farm School:** Free seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals are provided to farmers for demonstration purposes, and training is imparted to a group of 30 farmers at each Farm School.
• **Progressive farmers who demonstrate excellence and innovation in agriculture are recognized and rewarded. Along with a certificate, the following cash awards are given:**
• Block Level: ₹10,000 – Kisan Shri
• District Level: ₹25,000 – Kisan Bhushan
• State Level: ₹50,000 – Kisan Ratna
• <br>

Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant must be a resident of Uttarakhand.
2. The applicant must be a farmer.
3. The farmer must have cultivable land.
4. The farmer’s name must be duly registered in the relevant land records.
5. <br>

Required Documents
• Aadhaar Card
• Residence Certificate
• Bank Passbook
• Mobile Number
• Certificates of notable work in the agricultural sector
• Training certificates
• Proof of visits outside the state (if applicable)
• Soil Health Card / Animal Breed Improvement Card
• Kisan Credit Card details (if held)
• Proof of crop/animal insurance (if applicable)
• Self-attested passport-sized photograph
• Details of membership in any committee/organization (if applicable)
• Information on crop production, profits, and landholdings

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for this scheme?
A: All farmers who are residents of Uttarakhand, possess cultivable land, and whose names are registered in the land records are eligible.
<br>

Q: What kind of training is provided under the scheme?
A: Farmers receive periodic training in modern agricultural practices, including crop management, soil health, irrigation techniques, and sustainable farming methods.
<br>

Q: Are exposure visits part of the scheme?
A: Yes. Farmers are taken on exposure visits to model farms, research institutions, and other areas to learn best agricultural practices.
<br>

Q: What are Farm Schools under this scheme?
A: Farm Schools provide practical demonstrations where free seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals are supplied. Training is conducted for groups of 30 farmers to showcase new techniques and innovations.
<br>

Q: How are progressive farmers recognized?
A: Farmers demonstrating excellence in agriculture are rewarded with certificates and cash awards at block, district, and state levels.
<br>

Q: How can a farmer apply for training or exposure visits?
A: A farmer can submit a written request to the Nyaya Panchayat, Assistant Agriculture Officer at district or block level, Agriculture and Soil Conservation Officer at unit level, or Chief Agriculture Officer/Project Director (ATMA) at district level.
<br>

Q: How is the Kisan Award application process conducted?
A: Advertisements are published in newspapers by district Agriculture Offices. Applications can then be obtained from ADO Agriculture, Development Block Agriculture Office, or District Level Agriculture Office.
<br>

Q: Who gives the final approval for the Kisan Award?
A: The final approval is given in the ATMA Governing Body Meeting, chaired by the District Magistrate.
<br>