In a major move to revolutionize India’s agricultural sector, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its approval to the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana for a six-year tenure beginning in the financial year 2025–26. Announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, this initiative targets the development of 100 districts characterized by low agricultural productivity, sparse cropping intensity, and limited access to institutional credit, aiming to significantly boost their farming outcomes.
Inspired by NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme, this pioneering scheme is the first to focus solely on agriculture and allied sectors. Its goals include boosting crop productivity, encouraging crop diversification and sustainable farming practices, enhancing post-harvest storage facilities, improving irrigation infrastructure, and increasing farmers’ access to credit.
The scheme will be implemented by integrating 36 existing programs from 11 central ministries, complemented by state-level efforts and collaborations with the private sector. Every state and union territory will have at least one district included, with funding allocated according to each region’s net cropped area and the number of operational farms.
For smooth implementation, committees will be established at the district, state, and national levels. At the district level, a District Dhan-Dhaanya Samiti, including progressive farmers, will develop a tailored Agriculture and Allied Activities Plan. These plans will be aligned with national priorities such as water and soil conservation, crop diversification, and the promotion of organic and natural farming.
The scheme’s implementation will be monitored through 117 key performance indicators (KPIs) on a digital dashboard updated monthly. Central Nodal Officers will supervise progress in each district, while NITI Aayog will offer continuous guidance and conduct regular evaluations to ensure effective execution.
Comment here