The Prime Minister Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana is a government initiative approved by the Union Cabinet on July 16, 2025, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme will be implemented for six years starting from 2025-26 across 100 districts in India. Inspired by NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme, this is the first specific scheme focused on agriculture and allied sectors. It will be operated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in coordination with 11 departments, integrating 36 existing schemes, state government programs, and private sector participation to enhance agricultural development.
Why PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana is Essential: Addressing Agricultural Challenges
Several districts in India face challenges such as low agricultural productivity, limited cropping intensity, and inadequate credit availability, leading to weaker rural economies and lower farmer incomes. The PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana was introduced to address these issues by strengthening agriculture in underdeveloped districts, promoting modern technologies, and encouraging sustainable farming practices. Operated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the scheme aims to boost rural employment, increase farmer incomes, and contribute to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).
PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana: Benefits for 1.7 Crore Farmers in India
The scheme will primarily benefit small and marginal farmers, landless households, women farmers, and young farmers in the 100 selected districts, impacting approximately 1.7 crore farmers. It will provide access to better seeds, fertilizers, agricultural equipment, and easier credit facilities. Improvements in local storage and irrigation infrastructure will reduce crop losses and enhance farmer incomes. The scheme, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, will also strengthen the rural economy by creating local employment opportunities and fostering self-reliance.
PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana: Potential Impacts and Challenges
There is no direct likelihood of anyone being disadvantaged by the scheme. However, districts not included in the initial 100 may not immediately benefit, though the scheme may expand in the future. If implementation is uneven or resources are not distributed equitably, some farmers may not receive the expected benefits. Additionally, larger farmers or regions with already high productivity may receive less focus. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare will oversee effective implementation to minimize such challenges.
PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana 2025: District Selection Criteria and Updates
As of the latest available information, the specific names of the 100 districts selected for the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana have not been officially announced. The scheme was approved on July 16, 2025, and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that the identification of districts will be completed by the end of July 2025, with implementation starting from the Rabi season in October 2025. The selection will be based on three criteria: low agricultural productivity, low cropping intensity, and low credit disbursement. At least one district from each state/Union Territory will be chosen, with the number of districts determined by net cropped area and operational holdings. For updates, check official sources like the Press Information Bureau (www.pib.gov.in) or the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare website.
Key Information
Objectives: The scheme, operated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, aims to enhance agricultural productivity, promote crop diversification, improve irrigation and storage facilities, and ensure easier access to short- and long-term credit.
Selection Criteria: Districts will be selected based on low productivity, low cropping intensity, and limited credit disbursement. Each state/Union Territory will have at least one district included.
Implementation and Monitoring: Committees at district, state, and national levels, including progressive farmers, will be formed for planning and execution. The District Dhan Dhanya Committee will finalize district-level agricultural plans aligned with national goals like crop diversification, soil and water health, and organic farming. Progress will be monitored monthly through a dashboard with 117 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). NITI Aayog and Central Nodal Officers will review the scheme regularly.
Expected Outcomes: The scheme will increase productivity, promote value addition in agriculture and allied sectors, create local livelihoods, and contribute to Atmanirbhar Bharat. Improvements in the 100 districts will also enhance national agricultural indicators.