The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) 2.0, under the Watershed Development Component, is a boon for farmers seeking to increase their income from traditional farming. Under this scheme, 3,000 farmers from 14 districts of the state are now earning between Rs 40,000 and 50,000 by engaging in cluster-based vegetable production. This initiative is not only strengthening their economic situation but also giving a new direction to rural livelihoods in villages.
Farmers like Tejpal, a resident of Naugaonkala in Ratlam district, who previously grew only edible vegetables, are now commercially cultivating tomatoes and chilies on half an acre. This transformation has been made possible by the innovation of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) 2.0, under the Watershed Development Component, which for the first time has linked water conservation with livelihoods.
100 to 150 farmers selected
Under the scheme, 100 to 150 farmers with irrigation facilities were selected for each project. To provide technical training, 835 lead vegetable farmers were identified and appointed as master trainers to teach scientific methods of vegetable production in villages.
Subsidy of Rs 30,000 per farmer being provided
The government is also providing farmers with a subsidy of up to Rs 30,000 per farmer to purchase fertilizers, medicines, and other resources. Furthermore, shade net nurseries are being set up in villages for 50 to 60 farmers to ensure timely availability of high-quality seedlings. These nurseries are also being funded with up to Rs 1.30 lakh.
9,000 more farmers will benefit in the upcoming season
Given the success of this scheme, it is being expanded to 85 projects in 36 districts in the Rabi season, benefiting about 9,000 more farmers. Currently, it is successfully operating in 14 districts, including Dhar, Ratlam, Khargone, Barwani, Sagar, Guna, Indore, and Sheopur.
According to Watershed Director Avi Prasad, this scheme is an important step towards making farmers self-reliant and strengthening the rural economy.
