Budget 2025: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhanya Yojana in the Union Budget 2025, covering 100 districts with low yields, modern crop intensity and below-average credit parameters. She said that the scheme would benefit 1.7 crore farmers.
100 districts to be included in PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana
Presenting her record eighth consecutive budget, the Finance Minister said, "PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana - developing agri districts program...Our government will undertake a PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana in partnership with states. Through the convergence of existing schemes and specialised measures, the program will cover 100 districts with low productivity, moderate crop intensity and below-average credit parameters. It aims to enhance cultural productivity."
Scheme to focus on five key areas
The Finance Minister said that the program is inspired by the success of the Aspirational Districts Program and aims to uplift farmers in underdeveloped agricultural regions.
The scheme will focus on five key areas:
- Enhancing agricultural productivity by adopting better farming techniques
- Promoting crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term benefits
- Developing post-harvest storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels to reduce crop wastage
- Improving irrigation facilities to increase agricultural output
- Facilitating access to long-term and short-term credit for farmers to invest in better farming practices.
Govt to launch 6-year programme for 'Atmanirbharta' in pulses
Sitharaman announced that the government will launch on six-year programme for 'Atamnirbharta' in pulses with a special focus on tur, urad, and masoor. Central agencies such as NAFED and NCCF will be prepared to procure these pulses from farmers who register with the agencies and enter into agreements. This initiative will run over the next four years, ensuring support and guaranteed procurement for farmers.
Additionally, the government has announced the Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program, which will be implemented in collaboration with state governments. This initiative is designed to tackle underemployment in agriculture by focusing on skilling, investment, and technology adoption to strengthen the rural economy. "Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program will be launched in partnership with the states. This will address underemployment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy," she said.
The program's main objective is to create enough employment opportunities in rural areas so that migration to urban centers becomes a choice rather than a necessity. It will particularly benefit rural women, young farmers, marginal and small farmers, rural youth, and landless families, ensuring their economic stability.
With these initiatives, the government aims to drive inclusive growth in agriculture, boost rural development, and provide better opportunities for farmers, thereby making the sector more sustainable and resilient.
(With agencies input)
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