- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Fri, 09 May 2025 05:03 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a major push to boost Neera production and generate rural employment, the Bihar government has identified two lakh palm trees across the state for tapping during the ongoing toddy season, aiming to produce approximately 3.9 crore litres of Neera. The initiative falls under the Chief Minister Neera Sanvardhan Yojana, jointly implemented by the Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department and Jeevika.
According to official sources, around 20,000 tappers will benefit from this scheme during the April to July season, which spans approximately 65 days. Each tapper will receive an incentive of Rs 8 per litre of Neera extracted, directly transferred to their bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Districts including Nalanda, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Vaishali have reported the highest number of registered tappers and palm trees. The process of issuing licenses is handled by the Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department after tapper verification through Jeevika.
In addition to the incentives for tappers, palm tree owners are also eligible for financial support. Owners can receive Rs 3 per litre for Neera extracted from up to 10 trees, with a maximum incentive payout of Rs 5,850 per person at a rate of Rs 585 per tree. Tappers managing 10 trees may earn up to Rs 15,600 in incentives. A separate Rs 30 per tree will also be provided for tree marking purposes.
The highest number of Neera sales centres have been established in Nalanda district, reinforcing the government’s aim to create sustainable livelihoods through this initiative.