Uneven rainfall and water scarcity often pose a major challenge for farmers in India. To address this problem and improve water management, the central government launched the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). This scheme places special emphasis on providing water to fields and promoting modern irrigation methods. Its main objective is to reduce farming costs, ensure higher yields with less water, and increase farmers’ income. Under this scheme, the government provides financial assistance for adopting technologies such as drip and sprinkler irrigation.
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Why is the scheme important for farmers?
In many areas, rain-fed farming leads to crop failures, causing significant losses for farmers. PMKSY is a crucial step towards mitigating this problem. It provides farmers with opportunities for water conservation, improved irrigation efficiency, and better agricultural production. The scheme promotes the development of water sources in fields, watershed development, and micro-irrigation facilities, enabling more farming with less water.
Who can benefit from the scheme?
Only Indian citizen farmers are eligible to benefit from this scheme. Farmers receive a subsidy for installing micro-irrigation systems on a maximum of five hectares of land. The benefits are provided through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, so an Aadhaar card is mandatory for the beneficiary. Valid land records and farming-related documents are also required for this scheme.
What documents are needed?
To apply for the scheme, farmers need an Aadhaar card, caste certificate, proof of cultivable land, bank details, proof of residence, passport-sized photograph, and address proof. These documents play a crucial role in verifying the farmer’s identity and land ownership.
Benefits offered under the scheme
This scheme encourages farmers to use modern irrigation techniques. The government provides financial assistance for installing drip and sprinkler systems, which reduces farming costs. The scheme also includes activities such as rainwater harvesting, increasing the use of farm-level water resources, and watershed development. This enables maximum utilisation of water and also increases crop production.
How much subsidy does the government provide?
Under PMKSY, small and marginal farmers receive a subsidy of up to 55 percent, and farmers in other categories receive up to 45 percent. This subsidy is transferred directly to the farmers’ bank accounts, making the process transparent and simple.
How to apply for the scheme?
Farmers interested in applying for the scheme can contact their block, district, or panchayat office. They can obtain the application form from there, fill in the required information, and submit it along with the necessary documents. After submitting the form, the farmer is given a receipt, which is important for the further process. After verification of the documents, eligible farmers are provided with the subsidy.