India Boosts Agricultural Support for Farmers
The Government of India is significantly increasing its financial support for the agricultural sector, with a budget allocation soaring from ₹21,933.50 crore in 2013-14 to an impressive ₹1,22,528.77 crore for 2024-25. This initiative aims to enhance farmers’ income and improve agricultural productivity through various schemes designed to benefit small and marginal farmers. Key programs include the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and the National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission, among others.
Major Initiatives to Support Farmers
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) has launched several key initiatives to uplift the agricultural community. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) provides direct income support to farmers, ensuring they receive financial assistance to sustain their livelihoods. Another significant program, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY), aims to provide pension benefits to small and marginal farmers, enhancing their financial security in old age.
Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) offers crop insurance to protect farmers against losses due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases. The Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) further supports farmers by reducing their borrowing costs. The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) is also pivotal, facilitating the development of essential agricultural infrastructure, which is crucial for improving productivity and market access.
Success Stories and Income Growth
Recent reports from the Indian Council on Agricultural Research (ICAR) highlight the success of these initiatives, showcasing the stories of 75,000 farmers who have doubled their income through the convergence of various government schemes. This remarkable achievement underscores the effectiveness of the government’s approach to agricultural welfare and development.
The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) conducted a Situation Assessment Survey, revealing that the average monthly income for agricultural households was ₹10,218 during the 2018-19 agricultural year. This figure reflects the ongoing challenges faced by farmers, despite the government’s efforts to enhance their financial stability.
Comparative Analysis of Consumption Expenditure
According to the latest NSSO Survey on Household Consumption Expenditure for 2023-24, there has been a notable increase in the average monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE) across different sectors. For instance, rural households reported an MPCE of ₹4,122, a significant rise from ₹1,430 in 2011-12. In urban areas, the MPCE increased from ₹2,630 to ₹6,996 during the same period.
This data indicates a growing disparity between rural and urban consumption, with rural households experiencing a lower percentage of MPCE compared to their urban counterparts. The government continues to monitor these trends closely, aiming to bridge the gap and ensure equitable growth across all sectors.
This information was shared by the Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur, in a written reply in Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers across India.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn