Agriculture Reform Needs More than an Umbrella Scheme: PMDDKY

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 ₹24,000 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.

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