Rs. 240 Billion Cleared for Dhan-Dhanya Scheme

17-Jul-2025 06:20 PM

New Delhi. The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved a financial contribution of ₹240 billion under the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana for the rapid development and expansion of the agriculture sector.

The scheme aims to boost crop productivity in 100 districts across the country and will run for the next six years, beginning in the current financial year.

This ambitious plan integrates 36 existing schemes from 11 related departments. It will focus on improving crop yield, promoting crop diversification, and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices, especially in underperforming districts.

According to a government release, the scheme also targets improvements in post-harvest storage at Panchayat and Block levels, expansion of irrigation facilities, and better access to both short-term and long-term loans for farmers.

The selection of 100 districts will be based on poor crop productivity, low crop density, and limited loan distribution. Every state and union territory will have at least one district included, with the number of districts depending on their total agricultural area and operational land holdings.

Approximately 1.70 crore farmers are expected to benefit from the scheme. The framework for the plan was prepared by NITI Aayog under its Aspirational District Program, making this the first scheme of its kind with an exclusive focus on agriculture and allied sectors. Its success will largely depend on effective implementation.