The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship irrigation initiative launched by the Government of India in July 2015. Its primary objective is to extend the coverage of irrigation and enhance water use efficiency in the agricultural sector. The scheme is built on the vision of “Har Khet Ko Pani”, which means providing water to every field. This goal underscores the government’s commitment to increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable water resource management.
The PMKSY was developed with a multi-dimensional objective framework. The key objectives of the scheme are:
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PMKSY consists of four major components:
AIBP focuses on fast-tracking the completion of ongoing major and medium irrigation projects.
This sub-scheme ensures water accessibility to every field by developing new irrigation sources, repairing existing sources, and distributing water efficiently.
This component promotes water-efficient technologies, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, especially in areas with water scarcity.
It aims at soil and water conservation, groundwater recharge, and effective use of rainwater.
The implementation of the PMKSY is coordinated through a multi-agency approach involving:
The central government provides a significant share of the funding, while the remaining portion is borne by state governments. States are encouraged to draw up District Irrigation Plans (DIPs) and State Irrigation Plans (SIPs).
The direct beneficiaries of the PMKSY scheme include:
By focusing on inclusivity, the scheme aims to boost overall agricultural resilience and income.
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To apply for benefits under the Krishi Sinchai Yojana program, farmers need to furnish the following documents:
Eligible farmers can apply for the scheme by following these steps:
Under PMKSY, farmers can receive subsidies of up to 55% to 60% of the cost for setting up micro-irrigation systems like drip or sprinkler irrigation. In some states, additional top-ups are provided to SC/ST and women farmers.
PMKSY is supported by technology platforms and satellite mapping to monitor the progress of irrigation infrastructure and ensure efficient implementation. Geo-tagging of assets and mobile apps for farmer outreach is part of the scheme’s digital strategy.
The government regularly evaluates the performance of PMKSY through:
Since its launch, PMKSY has brought a significant transformation in India’s irrigation landscape:
While the PM Krishi irrigation project has had notable success, challenges remain:
The government plans to strengthen local level planning, improve transparency through digital tools, and increase capacity building initiatives for farmers.
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana represents a holistic approach to irrigation development and water conservation in India. By promoting efficient water use and expanding irrigation coverage, it directly supports agricultural growth and farmer prosperity. The integration of modern technologies, collaborative governance, and inclusive beneficiary targeting has made PMKSY a vital tool for rural transformation. However, continuous investment, farmer education, and infrastructure maintenance are essential for the scheme to achieve its full potential. As India faces climate challenges and water stress, schemes like PMKSY will be increasingly critical in ensuring food security and sustainable rural livelihoods.
PMKSY is a government scheme aimed at improving irrigation coverage and promoting efficient water use practices across India.
Small, marginal, and rain-fed area farmers are the primary beneficiaries.
You can apply through local agricultural offices, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, or online via state agriculture department websites.
The four components are AIBP, Har Khet Ko Pani, Per Drop More Crop, and Watershed Development.
Subsidies range from 55% to 60% for micro-irrigation systems, with higher rates for SC/ST and women farmers.
Yes, most state governments have dedicated online portals for PMKSY enrollment.
It is a sub-scheme of PMKSY that ensures every field has access to irrigation water.
Yes, documents like Aadhaar, land proof, bank details, and income certificates are required.