Dehradun, April 21 -- The state government is encouraging farmers to move away from traditional farming and adopt cash crops. Recently, the State Cabinet approved policies related to millets, kiwi, and dragon fruit farming, under which more than 317,000 farmers are expected to benefit.

Under the Uttarakhand State Millets Policy, the government has approved a plan worth Rs 134.89 crore for 11 hill districts up to the year 2030-31. Farmers growing crops like Mandua (finger millet), Jhangora (barnyard millet), Ramdana (amaranth), Kauni (foxtail millet), and Chena will receive 80% subsidy on seeds and bio-fertilisers.

Additionally, Rs 4000 per hectare will be given for line sowing; Rs 2000 per hectare for direct sowing. Every year, 2 farmer...