Agriculture in India is still largely dependent on rainfall, which means farmers face the challenge of unpredictable weather and water scarcity every year. To find a permanent solution to this problem, the central government has implemented the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). This scheme aims to provide water to the fields and promote modern irrigation techniques so that farmers can overcome the vagaries of weather and increase crop production.

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Government encouragement for drip irrigation

The Horticulture Department is actively promoting the drip irrigation system. Under this technology, water is delivered drop by drop directly to the roots of the plants, preventing water wastage and providing the crop with the necessary moisture. The government is providing financial assistance to farmers for installing drip irrigation equipment, which is reducing the cost of cultivation.

How much subsidy are farmers receiving?

Under the drip irrigation scheme, farmers are being provided with assistance of up to a maximum of Rs. 2 lakh. A subsidy of 45 to 55 percent of the total cost has been fixed under the scheme. Farmers with 5 acres or more of land receive a 45 percent subsidy, while small farmers with less than 5 acres of land receive a subsidy of up to 55 percent. Assistance of up to Rs. 70,000 per hectare has been fixed.

Application process and selection system

To avail of this scheme, farmers have to register online on the MPFSTS portal of the Agriculture Department. After the application process is complete, eligible farmers are selected through a lottery system. According to officials, the targets set for drip irrigation in the state have been achieved, but more farmers will be included in the coming phases.

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Benefits of drip irrigation for farming

Drip irrigation saves approximately 70 percent of water consumption. Also, since fertilisers reach the roots directly, there is a 40 percent reduction in fertiliser consumption. This has a direct impact on crop production, and an increase of 20 to 30 percent in yield is being observed. In the face of changing weather patterns and water scarcity, this technology is emerging as an effective solution for farmers.