
PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY): A Game-Changer for Indian Agriculture? | CLAT Current Affairs 2026
Why in News?
The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY) was unveiled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union Budget 2025. Designed to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability, this scheme aligns with the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) and targets over 100 underdeveloped agricultural districts.
For aspirants preparing for CLAT Current Affairs, CLAT GK 2026, and Law Entrance Updates, understanding government schemes like PMDKY is crucial, especially in the context of constitutional law for CLAT and India’s commitment to sustainable development.
Understanding PMDKY: A Major Reform in Indian Agriculture
Why Does PMDKY Matter?
Despite agriculture being the backbone of India’s economy, many districts struggle with low productivity, outdated techniques, and weak infrastructure. PMDKY aims to bridge these gaps through targeted interventions, improved credit accessibility, and modernized post-harvest facilities.
Inspired by the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP)
PMDKY follows the successful ADP model, which transformed backward districts by focusing on:
✅ Convergence – Coordinating multiple schemes for maximum impact.
✅ Collaboration – Ensuring cooperation between district collectors and central agencies.
✅ Competition – Ranking districts based on performance to encourage improvement.
Key Features & Target Areas of PMDKY
Which Districts Will Benefit?
The scheme targets over 100 districts based on these parameters:
Low agricultural productivity
Moderate crop intensity
Limited access to credit facilities
India’s Cropping Intensity: Then vs. Now
- 1950-51: 111%
- 2021-22: 155% (Still below potential)
PMDKY Objectives
✅ Increase agricultural productivity using modern techniques.
✅ Promote crop diversification for better soil health & resilience.
✅ Strengthen post-harvest storage at the block & panchayat level.
✅ Enhance irrigation infrastructure for sustainable farming.
✅ Ensure financial inclusivity for farmers by improving credit access.
PMDKY’s Implementation & Funding
Who Will Benefit? 1.7 crore farmers across India.
Budget Allocation? No separate budget – funds will come from:
✔ Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare
✔ Ministry of Fisheries
✔ Ministry of Animal Husbandry & Dairying
When Will It Start? After Cabinet approval.
PMDKY’s Impact: Why It Matters for CLAT Aspirants
Boosts Productivity – Modern techniques + better irrigation.
Raises Farmer Incomes – Easier loans + better storage = higher profits.
Encourages Sustainability – Reduces dependence on a few crops.
Supports Rural Development – Strengthens underdeveloped districts.
Relevance to Constitutional Law for CLAT
PMDKY aligns with Articles 21 & 48A, reinforcing the Right to Life & Environmental Protection. Understanding these intersections is crucial for CLAT 2026 GK & legal reasoning.
Important Terms for CLAT GK 2026 & Law Entrance Updates
Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) – Launched in 2018, it uplifted backward districts by improving health, education, and agriculture.
Cropping Intensity – Measures land efficiency (Gross cropped area/Net sown area).
Crop Diversification – Shifting from monocropping to multi-crop farming.
Post-Harvest Storage – Facilities that reduce wastage & ensure better pricing.
Credit Accessibility – The ease with which farmers obtain loans for investment.
Conclusion: Why CLAT Aspirants Should Care About PMDKY
PMDKY is a landmark policy that will modernize Indian agriculture, boost farmer incomes, and enhance financial access. For CLAT GK 2026, it is essential to analyze:
✔ How it aligns with constitutional law (Article 21 & 48A).
✔ Its economic impact on rural India.
✔ Government policies influencing legal frameworks & governance.