Introduction
In a country where agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy and sustains a significant portion of the population, the Indian government has implemented various schemes to uplift farmers and enhance agricultural practices.
Importance of Agro schemes
The launch of government and agricultural schemes in India aims to enhance and uplift the livelihoods of those in need, striving to provide a better quality of life. Among these initiatives, agricultural schemes for farmers stand out as particularly significant, given the pivotal role the agricultural sector plays in the Indian economy, providing sustenance to a significant portion of the population. The foundation of the country's rural economy rests on ensuring food security.
During the first quarter of the fiscal year 2020-21, when the Indian economy experienced a negative growth of 23.9 percent, the agricultural sector emerged as a crucial contributor, showcasing a positive growth of over 3.4 percent. This resilience marked agriculture as a cornerstone for India's economic recovery. Recognizing its prominence, there is a pressing need for comprehensive government schemes to promote sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.
Schemes for Farmers
The BJP government has launched numerous schemes for the benefit of the Indian farmer. Some of them are;
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, launched on January 13, 2016, stands as a robust safety net for farmers facing the uncertainties of nature. The scheme's key features include nominal premium rates, shared equally by the central and state governments, comprehensive insurance coverage for various crops, and the use of technology for transparent and efficient loss assessment. PMFBY not only provides financial support in the event of crop failure but also encourages modern agricultural practices, ultimately leading to increased crop production.
The mission of PMFBY encompasses financial protection for farmers, risk mitigation against unpredictable factors, promotion of modern agricultural practices, increased crop production, catalyzing private sector participation, and ensuring inclusive coverage, especially for small and marginal farmers.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY): Launched in September 2019, PM-KMY addresses the crucial aspect of social security for small and marginal farmers in their old age. Eligible farmers, owning cultivable land up to 2 hectares and aged between 18 and 40 years, can enroll in the scheme. The enrollment process, carried out at Common Service Centers (CSCs), involves a monthly contribution from farmers, matched by an equal contribution from the central government.
Upon reaching the age of 60, enrolled farmers become eligible for a monthly pension, determined by their contributions. In case of the farmer's demise during the policy period, the spouse is entitled to 50% of the pension amount as family pension.
Soil Health Card Scheme: Launched in 2015, the Soil Health Card Scheme focuses on assessing and monitoring soil health in agricultural areas. Through soil testing, farmers receive personalized recommendations for fertilizers and soil amendments, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The periodic issuance of Soil Health Cards allows farmers to track changes in soil health, and the scheme incorporates digital technology for streamlined processes.
This initiative not only aids farmers in optimizing fertilizer use but also contributes to environmental sustainability and promotes balanced nutrient management practices.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): At the forefront of skill development, PMKVY, a flagship scheme under the Skill India initiative, aims to empower Indian youth with industry-relevant skill training. With a focus on recognizing prior learning, the scheme provides monetary rewards upon successful completion of training, encouraging more individuals to enroll.
Implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, PMKVY targets a diverse group, including school dropouts and existing workers. By enhancing the employability of the youth, PMKVY contributes to economic growth and addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals across various sectors.
e-NAM (National Agriculture Market): e-NAM, the National Agriculture Market, transforms agricultural commodity trading in India through an online platform connecting buyers and sellers. Launched to bring transparency to agricultural markets, e-NAM facilitates online trading, promotes electronic payment, and encourages grading and standardization of produce. The platform's single license across states simplifies trading processes, contributing to market efficiency and financial transparency.
With its emphasis on transparency and efficiency, e-NAM plays a crucial role in creating a unified national market for agricultural commodities.
Pradhan Mantri Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (ABHA): Responding to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pradhan Mantri Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan was launched in May 2020. This economic stimulus package encompasses measures across various sectors, including agriculture, MSMEs, taxation, banking, and infrastructure. Key components include economic relief, support for MSMEs, agricultural reforms, financial sector reforms, labor reforms, and increased infrastructure investment.
ABHA reflects the government's commitment to self-reliance, business support, and economic revival in the face of unprecedented challenges.
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, launched under the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, promotes organic farming in India. By providing financial assistance, organizing farmers into clusters, and offering training and capacity building, PKVY encourages the adoption of chemical-free and sustainable agricultural practices.
The scheme aims to enhance soil fertility, reduce environmental impact, and create market linkages for organic produce. Through cluster-based approaches and market integration, PKVY contributes to the growth of the organic farming sector in the country.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Launched on July 1, 2015, PMKSY focuses on improving farm productivity and efficient water resource utilization. With the objectives of ensuring water supply to every farm, achieving "Har Khet Ko Pani," and promoting more crop per drop, the scheme has three components: Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), Har Khet Ko Pani, and Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP).
PMKSY integrates various ongoing and new schemes related to water resources, aiming for sustainable agricultural practices. By addressing water scarcity issues and promoting efficient water management, PMKSY contributes to increased agricultural productivity.
National Mission For Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): As part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture strives to promote sustainable agricultural practices. With a focus on climate-resilient agriculture, water use efficiency, soil health management, crop diversification, agroforestry, research and extension, and capacity building, NMSA addresses the challenges posed by climate change.
By integrating various aspects of sustainable agriculture, the mission aims to enhance productivity while ensuring long-term environmental sustainability. NMSA stands as a comprehensive approach to sustainable agriculture, recognizing the interconnectedness of various factors affecting farming practices.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, also known as PM-Kisan, is a significant initiative to provide financial assistance to small and marginal farmers. With the primary objective of ensuring their financial well-being and supporting agricultural activities, eligible farmers receive direct income support of Rs. 6,000 per year.
The scheme, implemented through the Department of Agriculture, Co-operation & Farmers Welfare, involves online registration, direct benefit transfer, and database maintenance for effective implementation. By directly addressing the financial needs of farmers, PM-Kisan contributes to their economic stability and overall welfare.
Conclusion
These government schemes collectively form a formidable arsenal aimed at empowering Indian agriculture. From providing financial security to farmers in times of crop failure (PMFBY) to fostering sustainable agricultural practices (PKVY, NMSA) and enhancing water resource management (PMKSY), each scheme addresses a crucial aspect of the agricultural ecosystem.
As these schemes continue to evolve and adapt to the dynamic agricultural landscape, they play a vital role in shaping the future of Indian agriculture.
Only when we aid our annadatas in becoming free from the fears of economic security, do we ensure a better future for our future generations.
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