Chandigarh, May 12 -- In a push to promote organic farming and reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers, the Haryana government has decided to give Rs.1,000 per acre to farmers for cultivating "dhaincha"-- a green manure which improves soil health. The state government has set a target of promoting crop diversification on 4 lakh acre across all 22 districts, with "dhaincha" (Sesbania bispinosa) cultivation forming a key part of this strategy. Over 3 lakh farmers are expected to benefit from the scheme as the government's objective behind promoting this green manure is to reduce farmers' dependence on chemical fertilisers. Experts say that the annual shrub enhances soil structure and maintains productivity over the long term. "Under this new initiative, farmers growing dhaincha will receive direct cash assistance credited straight into their bank accounts through the direct benefit transfer system," agriculture minister Shyam Singh Rana said. Describing the green manure as a natural fertiliser that helps improve soil fertility, retain moisture, and lower input costs, the agriculture minister said that the farmers will be given Rs.1,000 per acre for cultivation.htc...