Government Unveils Ambitious Rural Development Programs
The Government has announced a significant initiative in the Financial Year 2025-26, launching the ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ programme aimed at revitalizing the rural economy. This comprehensive plan focuses on addressing underemployment in agriculture through skill development, investment, and technology. Targeting rural women, young farmers, and marginalized communities, the program seeks to create sustainable opportunities that reduce the need for migration. Additionally, the Union Budget introduces the ‘Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojna,’ designed to enhance agricultural productivity for 1.7 crore farmers across 100 districts.
Rural Prosperity and Resilience Programme
The newly launched ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ programme aims to tackle the pressing issue of underemployment in agriculture. By focusing on skill development, investment, and technology, the initiative seeks to invigorate the rural economy. The program specifically targets vulnerable groups, including rural women, young farmers, and landless families. The goal is to create ample opportunities in rural areas, making migration a choice rather than a necessity. The Department of Rural Development will lead the implementation, with support from the Departments of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Financial Services. This multi-sectoral approach is expected to foster a more resilient rural workforce.
Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojna
In conjunction with the rural prosperity initiative, the Union Budget has introduced the ‘Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojna.’ This program will be implemented in 100 districts characterized by low agricultural productivity and below-average credit parameters. The initiative aims to assist 1.7 crore farmers by enhancing agricultural productivity, improving irrigation facilities, and facilitating access to both long-term and short-term credit. By addressing these critical areas, the government hopes to uplift farmers and ensure sustainable agricultural practices across the targeted regions.
Strengthening Employment through Mahatma Gandhi NREGS
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) continues to play a vital role in rural development. Since its rollout on April 1, 2020, the Cluster Facilitation Project (CFP) has been instrumental in ensuring effective implementation of the scheme. This initiative focuses on accelerating development in 231 blocks across 108 aspirational districts and 46 other backward areas. By enhancing planning and execution, the CFP aims to create more job opportunities and improve living standards in these regions.
Enhancing Rural Connectivity with PMGSY
The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is another key initiative aimed at improving rural connectivity. This program provides all-weather roads to unconnected habitations, significantly enhancing access to essential services. The government has expanded PMGSY to include new verticals such as PMGSY-II and PMGSY-III, focusing on upgrading rural roads and constructing strategically important routes in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas. Recently, PMGSY-IV was launched, targeting connectivity for habitations with populations of 500 or more. With a total outlay of Rs. 70,125 crore, this initiative aims to connect 25,000 unconnected habitations by 2028.
To ensure the success of these programs, the government is actively promoting awareness through localized campaigns, community radio stations, and outreach programs. By leveraging technology, such as mobile apps and SMS services, the government aims to disseminate information effectively. Engaging community leaders and self-help groups is also a priority to educate citizens about the benefits of these initiatives and encourage their participation.
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