Identification Criteria
Aspirational Agriculture Districts Boost National Farming: The Central Government has identified 100 Aspirational Agriculture Districts (AADs) across 29 states and UTs. Selection is based on three main factors: low productivity, low crop intensity, and below-average access to credit. Each district is expected to show targeted improvements under the scheme.
Static GK fact: India has over 700 districts, with varied agricultural output and credit penetration.
Scheme Overview
The initiative is implemented under the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY). It draws inspiration from NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme, which focuses on the 112 most underdeveloped districts in the country. PMDDKY aims to accelerate agricultural growth and reduce regional disparities in productivity.
Governance and Monitoring
To ensure effective implementation, 100 Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) have been appointed, each assigned to monitor the performance of one selected district. Committees will operate at the district, state, and national levels for planning, coordination, and evaluation.
Static GK Tip: The role of CNOs is modeled after nodal officers in other flagship schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission for performance tracking.
Scheme Convergence
The programme promotes saturation-based convergence of 36 Central schemes spanning 11 ministries. This integration is designed to catalyse holistic development in agriculture and allied activities. The implementation period spans six years starting FY 2025–26.
Geographic Inclusion
The number of districts per state is proportionate to the Net Cropped Area and operational holdings. However, at least one district from each state has been included to ensure nationwide representation.
Static GK fact: Net Cropped Area in India is approximately 140 million hectares, contributing to varied crop yields across states.
District Level Planning
Each district forms a District Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (DDKY) Samiti, chaired by the District Collector or Gram Panchayat. These committees prepare a District Agriculture & Allied Activities Plan, identifying interventions to enhance productivity and resource utilization.
Progress Monitoring
Performance is tracked using 117 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) covering crop output, credit utilization, infrastructure development, and farmer welfare. The indicators allow systematic assessment and course correction at regular intervals.
Static GK Tip: KPI-based monitoring is widely used in government schemes for evidence-based decision-making and accountability.
Expected Impact
The scheme is expected to increase crop productivity, improve access to agricultural credit, and strengthen infrastructure across selected districts. By targeting underdeveloped areas, it aims to reduce regional disparities and promote inclusive agricultural growth.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Aspirational Agriculture Districts Boost National Farming:
| Topic | Detail |
| Scheme Name | Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) |
| Target Districts | 100 Aspirational Agriculture Districts (AADs) |
| Implementing Body | Central Government with NITI Aayog guidance |
| Selection Criteria | Low productivity, low crop intensity, below-average credit access |
| Monitoring Officers | 100 Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) |
| Duration | FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31 |
| Key Mechanism | District Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (DDKY) Samiti |
| Converged Schemes | 36 Central schemes across 11 Ministries |
| Performance Tracking | 117 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) |
| Geographic Coverage | 29 states and UTs; minimum one district per state |
