The Pudong New Area of Shanghai held a news conference on Sept 29 to promote its new policies for agricultural talent. It introduced eight new measures, aimed at boosting support for the talent and improving related services.

Earlier in April, Pudong introduced Shanghai's first comprehensive talent-specific policy for the agricultural sector – known as the eight measures for Pudong's agricultural talent.

To attract talent to agriculture, the policy offers monthly subsidies for up to two years: 1,000 yuan ($141.35) for undergraduates, as well as 2,000 yuan for master's degree graduates and 3,000 yuan for those with  doctorates.

What's more, to foster industry leaders, qualified participants in a special project will be able to receive up to 100,000 yuan in start-up subsidies. The "Head Goose" project focuses on cultivating leaders in rural industry revitalization, especially through training and support programs. Additionally, interest subsidies are being provided for policy-based agricultural loans, with a maximum of 5 million yuan issued annually per project. If multiple projects are submitted, the combined annual limit remains 5 million yuan.

Elsewhere, to support the development of talent, grants of 2,000-8,000 yuan are being offered for advancing education and professional qualifications.

To promote exemplary talent, new farmers who win talent awards can receive up to 100,000 yuan. Individuals who earn national or provincial honors – such as being included among China's Top 10 Farmers – will be rewarded between 60,000-100,000 yuan, depending on the ranking.

For those who win awards in agricultural and rural innovation competitions at the municipal level or higher during the year, financial rewards of 10,000 yuan, 30,000 yuan and 50,000 yuan will be provided based on their ranking. At the district level, awards of 10,000 yuan, 20,000 yuan and 30,000 yuan will be granted.

Sources: Official Website of the People's Government of Pudong New Area and shobserver.com