The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has announced a new policy under the “Per Drop More Crop” initiative to achieve better water use and improved farmer income. The “Per Drop More Crop” initiative allows states and union territories to implement small water storage and conservation efforts under “Other Interventions”.

In accordance with the new guidelines, states and union territories will now be able to plan project options for local water management, such as building ponds and storage systems for water harvesting, depending on the need for these resources in the area. These systems and resources will be made available to farmers and the community they reside in with the understanding of using the stored water for micro-irrigation purposes.

More Flexibility for States in Using Funds

Earlier, states could use only 20% of the total funds for such activities, and 40% for North-Eastern states, Himalayan states, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Now, states and union territories can spend more money as per their local needs. These steps will help farmers use micro-irrigation, save water, and increase their crop production and income.

Eligibility

  1. The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
  2. All farmers from any State or Union Territory can get the benefits of this scheme.
  3. Each farmer can get a subsidy for up to 5 hectares of land.
  4. Note 1: Farmers must buy only BIS-marked systems or parts under this scheme.
  5. Note 2: The government will give the benefit through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Farmers must provide their Aadhaar details to get it.

Application Process (Offline)

Step 1: Farmers should contact their Block or District Agriculture Office through the Gram Panchayat. They can also call the Kisan Call Centre (Toll-Free No. 1800-180-1551).

Step 2: Collect the application form for the scheme from the concerned office.

Step 3: Fill in all required details, paste a passport-size photo (signed across), and attach self-attested documents.

Step 4: Submit the completed form and documents to the authority.

Step 5: Get the receipt or acknowledgment after submitting the form.

Documents Required

  • Aadhaar card
  • Bank account details
  • Address proof
  • Passport-size photograph
  • Caste certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of agricultural land
  • Domicile certificate of the State or Union Territory