Cabinet approves PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana to develop 100 agri districts, benefit 1.7 crore farmers

In a push to boost agricultural productivity and support farmers, the Union Cabinet has approved the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, aimed at transforming 100 agri districts across the country. The scheme, which was announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, will be implemented over a six-year period starting from FY26 (July onwards).

Under the initiative, the government will converge 36 existing schemes across 11 ministries with a total outlay of ₹24,000 crore per year. The scheme, in collaboration with the state government, aims to benefit 1.7 crore farmers. At least one eligible district will be chosen from every state. Targeted districts will include those with low agricultural productivity, moderate crop density, and below-average credit parameters.

Key objectives of the scheme include enhancing agricultural productivity, increasing adoption of crop diversification and sustainable practices, augmenting post-harvest storage at the panchayat and block levels, improving irrigation facilities, and ensuring better access to long- and short-term credit.

The scheme draws from the successful model of the Aspirational District Programme and will be supported by a dedicated mobile application to provide farmers with comprehensive, easy-to-access information.

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