Must Know About : PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana

 Why in News?

PM Narendra Modi has urged officials to implement the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana at a fast pace. This scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, aims to enhance farmers’ income in 100 districts with low agricultural productivity.

 Introduction

Agriculture is a crucial sector of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. Over the years, the government has introduced various schemes to improve farmers’ income and rural prosperity. One such initiative is the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, which focuses on developing agriculture in districts with low productivity. The scheme aligns with the broader goals of increasing food production, strengthening the agricultural value chain, and ensuring sustainable rural development.

 Key Highlights of the Speech

1. Emphasis on Fast Implementation:
   • PM Modi has directed officials to accelerate the implementation of the scheme.
   • The scheme will help farmers in 100 districts with low agricultural productivity.
2. Record Agricultural Production:
   • India’s agricultural production has reached over 330 million tonnes.
   • Horticulture production has also increased to over 350 million tonnes.
   • This marks significant growth from 265 million tonnes recorded 10-11 years ago.
3. Focus on Two Major Goals:
   • Development of the agricultural sector.
   • Prosperity of villages, ensuring holistic rural development.
4. Government’s Approach: ‘From Seed to Market’
   • Agricultural reforms, farmer empowerment, and strengthening the value chain have led to higher productivity.
   • Policies ensure that farmers get fair prices and access to markets.
5. Lessons from the Aspirational District Programme:
   • The Aspirational District Programme has led to improved governance, collaboration, and competition in targeted districts.
   • The government aims to apply similar strategies in the 100 districts identified under the new scheme.
   • Officials are encouraged to study the outcomes of the Aspirational District Programme for better implementation of the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana.
6. Promoting Sustainable Fish Farming:
   • The government will prepare an action plan to promote sustainable fish farming in:
     • The Indian Exclusive Economic Zone.
     • The Open Sea.
   • Fish production and exports have doubled, and the government seeks to expand this sector.
   • Officials are encouraged to develop ease-of-doing-business reforms for sustainable fisheries.

Notes (Explanation of Key Terms)

1. PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana:

• Announced in Union Budget 2025-26.
• Focuses on improving agricultural productivity in 100 districts with low output.
• Aims to increase farmers’ income and boost rural prosperity.

2. Aspirational District Programme:

• Launched in 2018 by the Indian government.
• Identifies and improves backward districts based on health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and financial inclusion.
• Promotes collaborative governance and healthy competition among districts.

3. Agricultural Value Chain:

• Includes all processes from production to consumption.
• Ensures farmers get fair prices, proper storage, processing, and access to markets.
• Strengthens logistics and infrastructure for agricultural goods.

4. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):

• A 200-nautical-mile area from a country’s coastline.
• The country has exclusive rights for exploration and sustainable use of marine resources.
• Promoting fish farming in the EEZ ensures economic benefits and marine sustainability.

5. Ease of Doing Business Reforms:

• Government policies aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
• Ensures better investment opportunities, infrastructure, and efficient governance.
• Helps farmers and fishers access markets, credit, and technology efficiently.

Conclusion

The PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana is a step towards addressing regional agricultural disparities and enhancing farmers’ income. With lessons from the Aspirational District Programme, the scheme aims for holistic rural development. Additionally, the government’s focus on sustainable fisheries and ease of doing business reforms aligns with India’s long-term economic and food security goals.