New farm-sector scheme gives thrust to 100 laggard districts

DDKY with an annual outlay of ₹24,000 crore for six years, is currently implemented through convergence of 36 existing central and state schemes

- SANDIP DAS

TO BOOST FARMING in the under-performing districts, the government has initiated series of steps including supply of quality seed for boosting oilseeds and pulses production, promotion of vegetables cultivation, fisheries, beekeeping and onboarding of farmers producer organisation (FPOs) into commodity exchange NCDEX under the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (DDKY), a senior official said.

“There has been significant increase in areas under gram (chana) and mustard and sunflower under the convergence model in these agriculturally backwards districts, while activities such as beekeeping, fisheries and vegetables cultivation are being encouraged,’ an official told FE.

DDKyY, approved last year, aims to boost agriand allied sectors across 100 districts which have lower productivity, lower cropping intensity, and less credit disbursement.