Knowledge of Bhavanter Bharpai Yojna (BBY): Pathways to rural transformation in Haryana

Abstract

The Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana (BBY), introduced by the Government of Haryana in 2018, functions as a price deficiency payment scheme aimed at safeguarding farmers against market price volatility by compensating them when the actual sale price falls below the state-declared benchmark. The present study was undertaken to assess farmers’ knowledge of BBY, analyse the socio-economic variables influencing their knowledge, and identify the major constraints encountered in accessing scheme benefits. A sample of 120 beneficiary farmers from the Mahendragarh and Bhiwani districts of Haryana was surveyed using a structured interview schedule. The findings showed that 44.17 per cent of the respondents possessed medium knowledge of the scheme, 40 per cent had high knowledge, and 15.83 per cent exhibited low knowledge. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between knowledge levels and key variables such as education, income, landholding size, occupation, extension contact, and socio-economic status. The major constraints reported by farmers included delays in compensation, challenges in digital registration, lack of clarity regarding required documentation, and the limited coverage of crops under the scheme. The study suggests that the effectiveness of BBY can be strengthened by simplifying administrative procedures, broadening the crop basket, and enhancing farmer awareness through targeted and well-designed extension strategies.