The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY) was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union Budget presentation on February 1, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity in underdeveloped districts across India, drawing inspiration from the successful Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) launched in January 2018. PMDKY will focus on 100 districts identified based on specific agricultural parameters.
Objectives of PMDKY
PMDKY has five key objectives:
- Enhancing agricultural productivity.
- Promoting crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices.
- Improving post-harvest storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels.
- Strengthening irrigation infrastructure.
- Facilitating access to both long-term and short-term credit for farmers.
Selection of Districts
The selection of districts for PMDKY will be based on three primary parameters:
- Low agricultural productivity.
- Moderate crop intensity.
- Below-average credit access for farmers.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare is currently gathering data to identify these districts. Crop intensity, a key metric, measures the ratio of the gross cropped area to the net sown area, indicating land utilization efficiency.
Impact on Farmers
PMDKY is expected to benefit approximately 1.7 crore farmers. While the budget does not specify a separate allocation for the scheme, funding will be sourced from existing agricultural programs. The formal approval from the Union Cabinet is required before the programme is rolled out.
Promoting Rural Prosperity and Resilience
Beyond PMDKY, the government is also launching a multi-sectoral programme aimed at building rural prosperity and resilience. This initiative seeks to:
- Address underemployment in agriculture through skills development, investment, and technology adoption.
- Empower rural women, young farmers, and marginalized communities to create self-sustaining economic opportunities.
Focus on Pulses and Vegetables
In addition to PMDKY, the government has announced a Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, aiming for self-sufficiency in edible oils. This mission will expand cultivated areas and ensure fair prices for farmers. Furthermore, a comprehensive programme for the production and supply of vegetables and fruits will be introduced to meet rising nutritional demands.
Implementation Mechanisms
To ensure effective implementation, institutional mechanisms involving farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives will be established. This collaborative approach will streamline agricultural practices, enhance productivity, and contribute to a more resilient rural economy.