PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Targets 100 Districts With Local Action Plans

The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) is entering the implementation phase as 100 agricultural districts across the country begin preparing district-specific action plans to improve productivity and strengthen rural livelihoods. Unlike many centrally sponsored schemes that follow a common approach, PMDDKY allows every selected district to identify its own agricultural priorities based on local conditions.

The scheme targets districts that face low crop productivity, low cropping intensity and limited agricultural credit. Instead of introducing a new subsidy programme, it brings together 36 existing schemes across 11 ministries and departments so that farmers receive coordinated support for irrigation, crop diversification, storage, farm credit and sustainable agriculture.

Under the scheme, every selected district will prepare a District Action Plan through the District Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Samiti, headed by the District Collector. Farmers, panchayat representatives and local officials will also participate in preparing these plans.

The action plans will identify local challenges and recommend suitable interventions, whether improving irrigation, promoting crop diversification, strengthening post-harvest storage or expanding access to agricultural credit. This decentralised approach is expected to produce more effective solutions than a single national model.

Focus on Productivity and Sustainable Farming

One of the main objectives of PMDDKY is to increase agricultural productivity while encouraging sustainable farming practices.

The scheme promotes better water management, improved soil health, efficient irrigation systems and climate-resilient agriculture. It also supports the development of storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access for farmers.

Officials believe combining existing government programmes through a single district plan will improve implementation and ensure that investments are directed towards the most urgent local needs.

The government has developed a monitoring framework to track the performance of each district.

Progress will be measured through a dashboard using key performance indicators covering productivity, irrigation, crop diversification, agricultural credit and other development outcomes. Districts will be reviewed regularly, allowing governments to identify implementation gaps and share successful practices with other regions.

NITI Aayog will also review district plans to ensure they align with the objectives of the scheme and provide guidance wherever required.

A New Model for Agricultural Development

PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana represents a shift from isolated schemes towards integrated agricultural planning at the district level. By combining multiple government programmes into a single action plan, the initiative aims to improve productivity, strengthen rural infrastructure and increase farmers’ incomes.

If implemented effectively, the scheme could become a model for location-specific agricultural development, helping districts address their unique challenges while contributing to India’s long-term food security and rural growth.