Context:
The Union Cabinet recently approved the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY), aiming to unify 36 existing schemes across 11 Central Departments to boost agricultural productivity and rural self-reliance. The scheme is set to launch in October 2025 during the rabi season, with an annual outlay of â‚ą24,000 crore for six years.
Key Features of PMDDKY
- Convergence-Based Model: Integrates flagship schemes such as PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and relevant State-level initiatives.
- Targeted Approach: Focus on 100 low-productivity districts, identified using criteria such as cropping intensity and low credit disbursement, modeled on NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Districts Programme.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP): Encourages collaboration with private sector actors for agri-infrastructure, credit, and value addition.
- District-Level Planning: Implementation to be guided by District Dhan Dhaanya Samitis, based on local agro-climatic and socio-economic realities.
- Monitoring Framework: Progress to be tracked using 117 key indicators on a monthly basis by the Centre.
Challenges and Considerations
- Uniformity vs. Flexibility: While national convergence can streamline delivery, uniform implementation across diverse agro-ecological zones may dilute effectiveness.
- PPP Caveats: Private participation must align with public welfare goals, especially in critical areas like foodgrain, edible oil, and pulses production.
- Kharif Sowing Trends: Recent data show declines in oilseed and pulse cultivation, underscoring the need for robust public support and not just policy repackaging.
- Participatory Governance: For real transformation, States, Panchayati Raj Institutions, PACS, agricultural universities, and FPOs must be core stakeholders, not just peripheral actors.
Way Forward
- Increase Public Outlays: Reversing the fall in budgetary support for agriculture is critical to achieving self-sufficiency and doubling farmer incomes.
- Decentralised Planning: District-specific strategies must be empowered with adequate funds, autonomy, and technical support.
- Sustainable Agriculture Goals: PMDDKY must integrate goals like soil health, water conservation, crop diversification, and climate-resilient practices to ensure long-term rural prosperity.
