Boosting Rural Prosperity Through New Agricultural Missions

Transforming Indian Agriculture

Boosting Rural Prosperity Through New Agricultural Missions: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched two major agricultural missions — PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses — with a combined investment of Rs 35,440 crore. These initiatives aim to modernize Indian agriculture, improve farmers’ income, and promote sustainable growth across 100 selected districts.

Static GK fact: Agriculture contributes nearly 18% of India’s GDP and employs around 45% of the workforce.

Focus on Sustainable Growth

The PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana integrates 36 existing government schemes to create a unified approach toward crop diversification, irrigation efficiency, credit availability, and post-harvest storage. The scheme promotes climate-resilient and market-driven agriculture, ensuring long-term sustainability.

The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses emphasizes self-reliance in pulse production. It targets the expansion of cultivation area, improved procurement, and better processing infrastructure — directly benefiting over two crore farmers across India.

Empowering Aspirational Districts

The schemes align with the Aspirational Districts Programme, transforming once “backward” regions into development hubs. The model encourages convergence, collaboration, and competition among districts to drive inclusive growth. Infrastructure upgrades — including rural roads, electrified schools, and improved healthcare — enhance the quality of life and agricultural productivity.

Static GK Tip: The Aspirational Districts Programme was launched by NITI Aayog in 2018 to improve socio-economic indicators through focused interventions.

Agricultural Diversification and Growth

Since 2014, India’s agricultural output has surged significantly. Foodgrain production increased by 90 million tonnes, while milk production made India the largest producer globally. Fish output ranks second in the world, and honey and egg production have doubled in the past decade.

Government efforts also include fertiliser plant revival, micro-irrigation expansion, and crop insurance coverage, ensuring resilience against climate challenges.

Empowering Women and Farmer Organisations

Over 10,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have been formed to enhance market access and collective bargaining. The ‘Lakhpati Didis’ campaign and Krishi Sakhis initiatives have positioned rural women as leaders in natural and sustainable farming. Drone technology, training clusters, and certification programmes have made agriculture more efficient and inclusive.

Static GK fact: The FPO initiative was launched under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to double farmers’ income by 2022, continuing its expansion today.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Technology

Projects worth Rs 5,450 crore were inaugurated under these schemes, including animal husbandry, fisheries, food processing units, and cold chain facilities. The establishment of aquaparks, integrated fishing harbours, and AI-based technician training are enhancing rural technology and employment.

Market Reforms and Economic Relief

Recent GST reforms have reduced costs on tractors, irrigation tools, bio-pesticides, and organic fertilisers, directly easing farmers’ financial burden. The government’s push for agricultural exports has tripled honey exports, reflecting India’s growing presence in global agri-markets.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Boosting Rural Prosperity Through New Agricultural Missions: