Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: The Hindu

Context:

The Union Finance Minister has announced the Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana.

About the Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana

It is a transformative agricultural program launched by the Finance Minister in the Union Budget 2025-26.

It focuses on improving agricultural productivity and sustainability in 100 underdeveloped districts across India. These districts are characterized by low productivity, moderate crop intensity, and below-average parameters in agricultural practices.

The scheme aims to assist about 1.7 crore farmers, particularly those with small and marginal landholdings of less than 2 hectares.

What are the main objectives of the scheme?

Enhance agricultural productivity by introducing advanced farming techniques and modern equipment.
Promote crop diversification, encouraging the cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and other high-value crops.
Improve irrigation facilities, including solar-powered and micro-irrigation systems.
Augment post-harvest storage at the panchayat and block level to minimize crop wastage.
Facilitate credit access, offering long-term and short-term loans to farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices.

How will the scheme be implemented?

The scheme will be executed through the convergence of existing agricultural schemes, in collaboration with state governments to ensure that the interventions are comprehensive to the specific needs of each district, leveraging local resources and knowledge for effective implementation.

What are the expected outcomes of the program?

Increased income levels for farmers due to enhanced productivity and market access.
Sustainable agricultural practices leading to long-term environmental benefits.
Reduced migration by generating employment opportunities in rural areas, making migration a choice rather than a necessity.
A strengthened rural economy, supported by improved infrastructure, financial access, and better agricultural practices.

The Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana is motivated by the Aspirational Districts Programme, launched in 2018. The Aspirational Districts Programme aimed to transform underdeveloped districts by focusing on quick and effective development. Similarly, the Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana targets districts with low agricultural productivity to foster growth, productivity, and sustainability in farming.