Why in news?
The central government has proposed merging the Krishonnati Yojana, the National Mission on Natural Farming and the National Bee and Honey Mission into the Pradhan Mantri–Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM‑RKVY) for the period 2026‑31. The merged programme will have an estimated outlay of ₹1.75 lakh crore and aims to spur holistic agricultural growth.
Background
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) was launched in 2007–08 to accelerate agricultural growth by incentivising states to increase investment in the farm sector. It seeks to achieve an annual growth rate of 4% in agriculture and allied activities by giving states flexibility to design projects suited to local agro‑climatic conditions. States prepare District and State Agriculture Plans, incorporating crops, livestock, fisheries and infrastructure, and receive central funds based on performance.
Key features of the merged scheme
- Umbrella approach: Combining multiple schemes under PM‑RKVY reduces duplication and ensures better coordination. It covers natural farming, beekeeping, horticulture, fisheries, animal husbandry and agricultural marketing.
- Performance‑linked funding: States receive funds based on reforms and outcomes, such as adoption of natural farming, digitisation of land records and improvement in farmer incomes. Funding ratios remain 60:40 for general states, 90:10 for northeastern and hilly states and 100% for Union Territories.
- Focus on sustainability: The programme promotes organic and natural farming, integrated pest management, soil health improvement and water conservation. It encourages beekeeping and honey production to enhance pollination and farmer incomes.
- Infrastructure and value chains: Investments support irrigation, warehousing, cold chains, rural roads and digital platforms to reduce post‑harvest losses and improve market access.
Significance
- Integrated rural development: By aligning central and state efforts, PM‑RKVY aims to raise productivity, diversify crops and increase farmers’ earnings across India.
- Sustainable agriculture: Emphasis on natural farming and beekeeping reduces chemical inputs and supports ecological balance, benefiting soil health and biodiversity.
- Efficient use of resources: Merging schemes streamlines administration and ensures that funds reach priority areas such as small and marginal farmers, rain‑fed regions and agri‑start‑ups.
Source: The Indian Express
