Introduction to PMKSY – Per Drop More Crop
Water is the lifeline of agriculture, yet in India, inefficient irrigation and water wastage have been long-standing problems for farmers. To address these challenges, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Per Drop More Crop – an innovative and mission-mode scheme focused on enhancing water-use efficiency and expanding irrigation coverage across the nation.
Let’s uncover how this scheme is transforming Indian agriculture by maximizing crop yield while conserving precious water resources.
What Is Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)?
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) was launched in 2015 with the central objective of providing water to every field and promoting efficient water use in farming through modern irrigation techniques.
The tagline “Per Drop More Crop” highlights the scheme’s core philosophy: enhancing crop productivity by ensuring optimal use of water and improving irrigation infrastructure.
Primary Objectives of PMKSY
1. Expanding Irrigation Coverage
To provide end-to-end solutions for efficient water delivery, ensuring every farmer has adequate irrigation coverage.
2. Promoting Micro Irrigation Techniques
Encouraging the adoption of drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and other micro-irrigation methods to minimize water wastage.
3. Enhancing Water-Use Efficiency
By shifting from conventional irrigation practices to technology-driven solutions, PMKSY aims to save water and improve crop yield.
4. Ensuring Sustainability in Agriculture
Promoting judicious use of groundwater and surface water for long-term sustainability and preventing over-extraction.
Who Can Benefit from PMKSY?
Target Beneficiaries
- Small and marginal farmers
- State and Union Territory Governments
- Water User Associations (WUAs)
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Documentation Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Land Ownership Document (Patta/ROR)
- Bank Account linked to Aadhaar
- Application forms available at local agriculture offices or the official PMKSY Portal
How Does PMKSY Work?
Step 1 – Planning and Water Resource Mapping
A thorough survey is conducted to map water availability, usage patterns, and potential areas for micro-irrigation infrastructure.
Step 2 – Project Approval and Funding
States submit Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) which are evaluated and approved by the central government. Funding is shared between Central and State Governments.
Step 3 – Implementation of Micro Irrigation Systems
Beneficiaries install drip irrigation systems, sprinkler systems, or other efficient irrigation setups with government subsidy support.
Step 4 – Monitoring and Training
Regular monitoring ensures efficient usage, and farmers receive training on system operation and maintenance for long-term sustainability.
Key Components of PMKSY
Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP)
Focuses on completing large irrigation projects to provide command area coverage and stabilize water delivery.
On-Farm Water Management (OFWM)
Promotes efficient water use by providing technology and guidance for proper water distribution at the farm level.
Micro Irrigation (MI)
Subsidizes drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, enabling precise water application and reducing wastage.
Watershed Development (WD)
Implements sustainable land and water conservation practices in rainfed areas to promote groundwater recharge and prevent erosion.
Benefits of PMKSY
Increased Crop Productivity
By delivering the right amount of water at the right time, farmers can grow more crops per unit area.
Water Conservation
Drip and sprinkler irrigation significantly reduce water usage compared to conventional flood irrigation.
Reduced Cost of Cultivation
With efficient water usage, dependency on expensive water pumping is lowered, reducing electricity and fuel costs.
Employment Generation
Installation and maintenance of modern irrigation systems create new job opportunities in rural areas.
Climate Resilience
Improved irrigation reduces vulnerability to rainfall variability, making farming more sustainable.
Challenges and Limitations
Initial Investment Cost
Despite subsidies, many small farmers still struggle with the upfront cost of micro-irrigation systems.
Maintenance of Equipment
Lack of technical knowledge may lead to poor maintenance, affecting the longevity of installed systems.
Awareness Gap
Many farmers, especially in remote areas, remain unaware of the benefits and process of availing PMKSY.
Success Stories
Meena Devi’s Farming Transformation
Meena Devi, a farmer from Madhya Pradesh, had been dependent on irregular monsoons for irrigation. After adopting the PMKSY micro-irrigation subsidy, she installed a drip irrigation system on her farm. This change doubled her crop output while cutting water usage by 50%. Her success inspired neighbouring farmers to adopt the same system.
Comparison with Other Agricultural Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
While PM-KISAN provides direct income support, PMKSY focuses on infrastructure and technology to improve farm productivity.
The Soil Health Card improves soil fertility management, whereas PMKSY concentrates specifically on improving irrigation efficiency.
Future Prospects of PMKSY
Towards Water-Smart Agriculture
PMKSY is paving the way for water-smart farming, which will become critical in the face of climate change and depleting water resources.
Digital Integration
Efforts are underway to integrate digital platforms that enable farmers to monitor water usage, track subsidies, and optimize irrigation schedules via mobile apps.
Doubling Farmers’ Income
Efficient irrigation will play a major role in achieving the government’s goal of Doubling Farmers’ Income by improving crop yield and reducing costs.
How to Track PMKSY Application Status?
Farmers and other beneficiaries can track their application status online via the official PMKSY Portal by entering their Aadhaar number or application ID. Regular SMS and email updates keep them informed about the progress.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Per Drop More Crop is a revolutionary step toward making Indian agriculture sustainable, efficient, and profitable. By promoting modern irrigation techniques, expanding infrastructure, and emphasizing water conservation, PMKSY empowers farmers to overcome challenges of drought, low productivity, and high input costs.
This mission doesn’t just aim for better irrigation – it is about securing the future of millions of farmers, promoting sustainability, and enhancing India’s agricultural output for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1 – Who is eligible for PMKSY benefits?
Small and marginal farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations, and State Governments are eligible to apply.
Q2 – What types of irrigation systems are promoted under PMKSY?
Drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and other micro-irrigation technologies are supported.
Q3 – Is there a subsidy available under PMKSY?
Yes, subsidies up to 50–75% are provided depending on the category of beneficiary.
Q4 – How can I apply for PMKSY?
Applications can be submitted via the official PMKSY Portal or at local agriculture department offices.
Q5 – Can I track my application status online?
Yes, by visiting the official PMKSY Portal and using your Aadhaar or application ID.