Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Ajmer MP Bhagirath Choudhary is under scrutiny for receiving a government subsidy of Rs 99.03 lakh for a commercial cucumber cultivation project. The subsidy was granted under a scheme administered by the National Horticulture Board, where Choudhary serves as the ex-officio Vice-Chairman.
The Opposition has criticized Choudhary, alleging a conflict of interest and ethical concerns. Choudhary defended the subsidy, stating it was sanctioned according to the rules and denied any misuse of his official position.
Choudhary’s project, a high-tech polyhouse in Peeh village, received a total project cost of Rs 1.99 crore, with the subsidy directly credited to his bank loan account. He invested Rs 49.8 lakh personally, with the rest financed through an HDFC Bank loan.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot condemned the situation as an example of corruption and conflict of interest under the current government. He questioned the propriety of a Union Minister receiving such a subsidy from his own Ministry’s scheme.
Choudhary, a seasoned farmer, emphasized that the subsidy was part of a standard NHB scheme available to all eligible farmers and denied using his office for personal gain. The controversy has sparked debates on ethics and accountability in public office, with the Opposition intensifying its criticism.
