Launched on 30.10.1995 by the Department of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare & Co-operation, Government of Gujarat, the scheme honors farmers for innovative ideas and research in agriculture. It encourages farmers to produce good quality yield by applying new techniques and innovative practices. The award is given in five different categories:
• SUB-1: Develop a new variety through innovative skills in crops such as cereals, oilseeds, pulses, cotton, sugarcane, tobacco, horticultural crops, spices, and condiments.
• SUB-2: Achieve higher yield through modern irrigation methods, water management, and raising the water table by recharging wells/tube wells with rainwater harvesting.
• SUB-3: Demonstrate success in dry farming by developing drought management techniques.
• SUB-4: Develop new methods of Integrated Pest Management for different crops.
• SUB-5: Innovate in farm equipment design for cultivation, inter-cultivation, weeding, spacing, harvesting, threshing, and other farming operations.
Benefits
• Every year, a ₹51,000/- award is given along with a shawl and certificate to the first position winner in each category.
• The first five farmers from each category receive a shawl and certificate as recognition.
• Additional appreciation is extended to farmers for special work in areas like beekeeping, poultry farming, fisheries, etc.
Eligibility
• The farmer must be a permanent resident of Gujarat.
• Both male and female farmers possessing agricultural land in Gujarat are eligible to apply.
Application Process
Offline
• Step 1: Download or collect the application form from the Directorate of Agriculture/District Agriculture Office. Two types of forms are available: one for the Sardar Patel Agricultural Research Award Scheme and one for Sardar Patel Agricultural Research Award (Organic Farming).
• Step 2: Fill in all mandatory fields, paste a passport-sized photograph, and attach all required documents.
• Step 3: Send the completed application form with necessary documents to the Directorate of Agriculture Office, Krushi Bhavan, Gandhinagar, Gujarat through the concerned District Agriculture Officer before 31st May.
• Step 4: After successful verification, the applicant becomes eligible to avail the benefits of the scheme.
Documents Required
• Copy of Aadhaar Card
• Passport-size Photographs
• Bank Details (Copy of Bank Passbook/Cheque)
• Residence Proof
• Evidence for Land Ownership (if applicable)
• Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• Colour Photographs of work done
• Audio/Video evidence of work done
• Copy of Award/Other Certificates received
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the aim of the scheme?
A: To honor and appreciate farmers’ contributions to agricultural development through innovative practices and research, thereby encouraging higher productivity.
Q: Which department launched this scheme?
A: The scheme was launched by the Department of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare & Co-operation, Government of Gujarat.
Q: When was this scheme launched?
A: The scheme was launched on 30.10.1995.
Q: Who is eligible to receive the benefits of the scheme?
A: Permanent resident farmers of Gujarat (both male and female) who possess agricultural land.
Q: Is every farmer eligible to apply for this scheme?
A: Only those farmers meeting the eligibility criteria of being a permanent resident and owning agricultural land in Gujarat are eligible.
Q: In how many categories will the award be given?
A: The award is given in five categories.
Q: Can a farmer of the general category apply under this scheme?
A: Yes, all eligible farmers including those from the general category can apply.
Q: What is the benefit of the scheme?
A: The first position winner in each category receives ₹51,000/-, a shawl, and a certificate, while the top five in each category are also appreciated with a shawl and certificate.
Q: What is the additional benefit provided?
A: Additional appreciation in the form of shawls and certificates is given for special work in areas like beekeeping, poultry farming, fisheries, etc.
Q: How can farmers get benefits of the scheme?
A: By applying through the prescribed offline process and having their application verified by the concerned authorities.