Sri Vijaya Puram, June 8: In a significant step towards modernizing agriculture in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Department of Agriculture has announced a subsidy scheme for the purchase of Carbon Fibre Telescopic Harvesters under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) for the financial year 2026-27.
The initiative seeks to encourage the adoption of modern agricultural tools that can improve productivity, reduce labour requirements and enhance safety for farmers engaged in harvesting operations, particularly those cultivating fruit-bearing trees.
Under the scheme, eligible farmers will receive a 50 percent subsidy on the purchase cost of a Carbon Fibre Telescopic Harvester, limited to one unit per beneficiary. The maximum subsidy available under the programme has been capped at Rs 30,000.
Officials said the scheme forms part of broader efforts to introduce advanced farm equipment suited to the unique climatic and geographical conditions of the islands. The carbon fibre harvester has been identified as a practical solution for local farmers due to its lightweight structure, durability and resistance to rust, factors that are particularly important in the humid tropical environment of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
One of the key features of the equipment is its telescopic design, which enables users to harvest fruits and crops from the ground without the need to climb trees. Agricultural experts note that tree-climbing remains one of the major occupational hazards faced by farmers, especially during harvesting seasons. By allowing farmers to reach elevated branches safely from the ground, the tool is expected to significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
The department also believes that the harvester can contribute to labour savings and improved efficiency. With labour shortages and rising input costs increasingly affecting agricultural operations, mechanized solutions are being promoted as a means to improve farm profitability while reducing dependence on manual labour.
According to the eligibility criteria, farmers possessing a minimum landholding of 0.10 hectare will be able to apply for assistance under the scheme. The department expects the subsidy to benefit small and marginal farmers who form a substantial portion of the agricultural community in the islands.
Officials highlighted that the adoption of modern harvesting technologies can lead to quicker harvesting cycles, reduced crop losses and improved quality of produce, thereby helping farmers increase their income over time.
Application forms for the scheme are available at Agriculture Sub-Depots and Zonal Agriculture Offices across the islands. Farmers interested in availing the subsidy have been advised to contact their nearest agriculture office for guidance regarding eligibility requirements, documentation and application procedures.
The Agriculture Department has also urged farmers to seek assistance through the Kisan Call Centre and departmental helplines to ensure wider awareness and participation in the programme.
The subsidy announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the administration to strengthen agricultural infrastructure, improve access to modern technologies and support sustainable farming practices in the Union Territory. Officials expressed hope that greater mechanization at the farm level will help improve productivity and enhance the overall resilience of the agricultural sector.
As agriculture continues to remain an important livelihood source for many island residents, schemes aimed at improving efficiency and farmer safety are expected to play a crucial role in the sector’s future growth.
