In News:

• Recently, the Union Government has introduced the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana which aims at enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Objective: To boost agricultural productivity, modernize farming practices, and enhance rural prosperity by addressing region-specific challenges in backward agricultural districts.

Key Features:

• Integrated Approach:
  • Consolidates multiple existing agricultural schemes under one umbrella for greater synergy and implementation efficiency.
  • Draws inspiration from the Aspirational Districts Programme, which has improved socio-economic outcomes in backward regions.
• District-Specific Interventions:
  • Focuses on districts with:
    • Low crop productivity
    • Moderate crop intensity
    • Limited institutional credit access
  • Implements customized strategies based on the unique challenges of each region.
• Core Focus Areas:
  • Enhancing farm productivity through modern technology.
  • Improving irrigation infrastructure.
  • Increasing formal credit availability to reduce dependence on informal moneylenders.
  • Promoting crop diversification and sustainable agriculture.
  • Strengthening post-harvest infrastructure like storage at Panchayat and block levels.
• Technology-Driven Solutions:
  • Encourages adoption of climate-resilient and precision farming.
  • Supports digital access to credit and advisory services.
• Financial Inclusion:
  • Strengthens linkages with government financial programs, microfinance institutions, and banks.
  • Aims to reduce rural indebtedness and promote formal financial participation.
• State and Centre Collaboration: Implementation will involve both central and state governments, ensuring localized solutions with national support.
• Reducing Distress Migration: By improving rural livelihoods and opportunities, the scheme aims to make migration a choice rather than a compulsion.