PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana: Government Launches ₹24,000 Crore Scheme to Boost Farmers in 100 Backward Districts

In a major boost for the agricultural sector, the central government has approved a new initiative aimed at transforming rural farming practices and increasing farmers' incomes. Named the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, this scheme will benefit 1.7 crore farmers across the country. With an annual budget of ₹24,000 crore, the program will be rolled out across 100 backward districts, integrating the efforts of 11 ministries and over 36 farming-related schemes.

Here’s a detailed look at what this ambitious plan offers and how it aims to change the face of Indian agriculture:

🔍 What Is PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana?

The PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana is a newly approved central government scheme designed to uplift farmers in India’s most underdeveloped agricultural regions. Unlike direct cash transfer schemes, this initiative focuses on district-level development by combining multiple existing government programs under one umbrella.

The program merges 36 schemes across 11 central ministries and aims to provide technological support, irrigation upgrades, post-harvest solutions, and climate-resilient farming techniques. Farmers in selected districts will be equipped with modern agricultural tools, methods, and access to support services that improve both productivity and income.

🎯 Key Objectives of the Scheme

1. Promote Crop Diversification – Encourage farmers to grow a variety of crops for better income and sustainability.

2. Support Climate-Resilient Farming – Focus on crops and practices that can withstand climate change effects.

3. Enhance Post-Harvest Infrastructure – Improve storage and processing facilities to reduce wastage.

4. Expand Irrigation Facilities – Strengthen water supply systems to boost yield.

5. Integrate New Technologies in Farming – Encourage modern farming tools and practices for better efficiency.

💰 Scheme Budget and Funding

The government has committed ₹24,000 crore annually for the implementation of this program. The funding will be used to improve agricultural practices, develop rural infrastructure, and deliver integrated benefits of 11 ministries to the 100 targeted districts.

🌾 Special Features of PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana

• Convergence of 36 Government Schemes into one unified delivery system.

• Focus on 100 Underdeveloped Districts, including at least one from every state.

• Increase in Agricultural Productivity and Farmers’ Income through a multi-layered approach.

📍 How Will Farmers Benefit?

Instead of selecting individual beneficiaries, the scheme will target entire districts based on specific performance indicators. These selected areas will undergo agricultural transformation, giving farmers access to better tools, infrastructure, and financial support mechanisms.

🏞️ District Selection Criteria

Districts will be ranked and chosen based on:

1. Low Agricultural Productivity

2. Moderate Crop Intensity – Areas with significant gaps between crop cycles.

3. Poor Credit Access – Regions where farmers have low access to institutional credit such as Kisan Credit Cards.

🏗️ How Will the Scheme Be Implemented?

The scheme will be launched in collaboration with state governments and implemented at district and block levels. Key implementation steps include:

• Formation of monitoring teams at state, district, and block levels.

• Appointment of technology partners for real-time tracking.

• Creation of Master Plans for each district with clear development targets.

• Involvement of all agricultural stakeholders, from local officials to farmer collectives.

🐐 Additional Activities Under the Scheme

• Promotion of animal husbandry (like goat and poultry farming).

• Support for small-scale agro-industries post-harvest.

• Expansion of farmer access to government-run training programs and resources.

❓ FAQs – Everything Farmers Need to Know

Q1: What is PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana?
A: It is a central government initiative to uplift farmers in 100 backward districts by combining 36 existing schemes across 11 ministries.

Q2: Will farmers need to apply individually?
A: No, there’s no need for individual applications. The scheme targets districts based on ranking criteria.

Q3: How will farmers benefit directly?
A: By receiving better agricultural support, training, and access to technology, credit, and post-harvest facilities.

📌 Final Words

With the launch of PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, the Indian government has taken a significant step toward inclusive and sustainable agricultural development. By focusing on district-level planning and combining multiple resources, this scheme aims to not only increase farm productivity but also ensure economic empowerment of farmers in the most backward regions.

As implementation begins, all eyes are on how effectively this ₹24,000 crore scheme delivers on its promises. For now, it offers a beacon of hope for millions of farmers striving for a better future.