Chennai: Sales of Tamil Nadu government's ambitious “Do it yourself” kit project has increased by four-fold after the department of horticulture and plantation crops introduced 40 per cent subsidy.
The project, which took off, under the yrban horticulture development scheme last year, had lost steam due to the lack of awareness and the high cost of the kits.
However, after the introduction of the 20 per cent subsidy on April 15, the sales have increased, especially in apartments. While the overall sales of the kits during the previous season (July 2016 — March 2017) were 30,000, the city has seen the collective sales of 5,425, within 20 days of introduction of the subsidy.
“All the three division offices in Anna Nagar, Perambur and Thiruvanmiyur are seeing sales this year. We have already sold over 2,500 kits in Anna Nagar since April 15,” said Mohammed Nazeer, Horticulture officer, Anna Nagar. The department has sold 1,975 and 950 kits in Thiruvanmiyur and Perambur offices, added the official.
According to the scheme, every Chennaiite is eligible to five kits that come with a package of natural fertilizers and various types of seeds. Organic seeds of ladies finger, brinjal, tomato, raddish and cluster beans are included in the kit.
“Every person with a local identity proof is eligible for five kits. Each kit includes 10 types of seeds, four bio fertilizers, neem oil and 1kilo water-soluble fertilser. After deducting the 40 per cent subsidy amount, the Rs 522 now costs Rs 322,” the official added.
Unlike the previous year, the horticulture department is now embracing various awareness campaigns to sensitise the public about the scheme. “We are taking up back-to-back awareness campaigns in the parks. Residents can also register in our offices to avail the kits,” added the horticulture officer.
How to avail kits?
Chennaiites can obtain the kits from any of the three horticulture offices in Annanagar, Thiruvanmiyur and Madhavaram. A local identity proof with a photograph is required for the purpose. For details, contact 9841155808 / 9840255347 / 9444017170.
