Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s agricultural sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, ushering in an era of innovation and empowerment. Recognising the importance of farmers as the backbone of the nation, the government has implemented progressive policies and invested heavily in modern technologies, which have significantly enhanced the livelihoods of those who sustain the country’s food security. The introduction of schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) has provided farmers with much-needed financial assistance and risk protection, while also encouraging sustainable agricultural practices. Prime Minister Modi’s steadfast commitment to farmer welfare is at the core of India’s development, ensuring that agriculture remains a central pillar of the nation’s prosperity.
Farmers, who are affectionately called ‘Annadatas’ or providers of food, are integral to the growth and stability of India’s economy. Their tireless efforts ensure food security for millions, fueling the rural economy and contributing to the nation’s overall development. National Farmers’ Day, observed every year on December 23rd, serves as a heartfelt tribute to these unsung heroes. The day marks the birth anniversary of Shri Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, whose policies focused on improving the welfare of farmers and rural communities. His dedication to addressing the needs of farmers continues to inspire the country to prioritize agricultural growth and rural development.
The Government of India, through various schemes and initiatives, has ensured that the socio-economic well-being of farmers is safeguarded. Programs such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana (PM-KMY), which offers pension benefits to senior farmers, further reinforce the government’s commitment to long-term farmer welfare. These policies are a direct response to the challenges faced by the agricultural community, aiming to provide immediate relief and long-term sustainability. The government’s emphasis on improving financial access, social security, and insurance coverage ensures that farmers are well-equipped to navigate the uncertainties of agriculture while contributing to the country’s overall growth.
On National Farmers’ Day, as the nation celebrates and honors the sacrifices and dedication of its farmers, it is a reminder to every citizen of the importance of supporting and respecting those who ensure that food reaches our tables. The government’s focus on creating a resilient agricultural sector, combined with the unwavering determination of farmers, is paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for all. The contributions of farmers, both acknowledged and unacknowledged, continue to drive India forward, making the nation proud of its rich agricultural heritage.
Farmers as Pillars of the Economy
Farmers form the backbone of India’s economy, driving the agricultural sector, which employs nearly half of the nation’s population and contributes 17.7 per cent to the Gross Value Added (GVA) in FY 2023-24. With a vast 54.8 per cent of the country’s 328.7 million hectares designated as agricultural land and a cropping intensity of 155.4 per cent, farming remains central to economic sustainability and growth. This sector supports not only food production but also ancillary industries, such as food processing, logistics, and exports, fostering national economic resilience. Farmers, through their persistent efforts, ensure the sustenance of millions while contributing significantly to GDP and employment.
Ensuring Food Security
India’s agricultural prowess, exemplified by the record-breaking foodgrain production of 332.2 million tonnes in 2023-24, underscores the indispensable role of farmers in ensuring food security. Surpassing the previous year’s output, this achievement highlights their dedication to feeding a population of over 1.4 billion. Farmers’ innovations in crop management, adoption of modern technologies, and resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change and fluctuating market dynamics ensure the steady availability of food, safeguarding the nation from crises and bolstering self-reliance.
Catalysts for Rural Development
Beyond cultivation, farmers are architects of rural development, shaping the socio-economic fabric of villages across India. Agriculture fosters rural entrepreneurship, creates employment opportunities, and drives infrastructure development in these regions. The efforts of farmers have a ripple effect, boosting education, healthcare, and overall living standards in rural areas. By participating in government initiatives and embracing sustainable practices, farmers contribute to the long-term development of rural India, which in turn strengthens the nation as a whole.
Innovators and Sustainability Champions
Modern Indian farmers are not only cultivators but also innovators. By adopting sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and efficient water management, they address global challenges like climate change and environmental degradation. Their innovations and openness to integrating technology, such as precision farming and drone-based monitoring, enhance productivity while conserving resources. These efforts ensure that Indian agriculture remains a beacon of sustainability, meeting present needs without compromising the future.
The Spirit of Sacrifice and Resilience
Farmers, often referred to as ‘Annadatas’ or providers of food, embody the spirit of sacrifice, hard work, and resilience. They persevere through challenges such as uncertain weather, market fluctuations, and financial instability to sustain the nation’s food supply. Their contribution extends beyond economic metrics; they uphold the cultural and ethical fabric of India, rooted in the agrarian tradition. As nation-builders, their tireless efforts form the foundation of a resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous India.
Key Schemes for Farmers in India
Launched over the years, these key agricultural schemes reflect the Government of India’s commitment to supporting farmers and enhancing their livelihoods. PM-KISAN, PMFBY, PM-KMY, and other initiatives like the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS), Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, and Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) demonstrate a holistic approach to addressing the diverse needs of the agricultural sector. These schemes aim to provide financial assistance, insurance, affordable credit, and infrastructure development, empowering farmers with the resources needed for sustainable agricultural practices and economic security.
Here are the key schemes for farmers’ welfare in India:
1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
Launched on 24th February 2019, PM-KISAN provides Rs 6,000 annually to landholding farmers in three installments via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). To date, Rs 2.81 lakh crores have been transferred to over 11 crore beneficiaries across the country.
2. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
Started on 12th September 2019, PM-KMY offers a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to small and marginal farmers aged 60 and above. Farmers contribute Rs 55–Rs 200 per month, matched by the government. LIC manages the fund, and 23.38 lakh farmers have enrolled in the scheme.
3. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Launched in 2016, PMFBY provides affordable crop insurance against natural risks. Since inception, 5549.40 lakh farmer applications have been insured, with Rs 1.50 lakh crores paid as claims.
4. Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)
ISS offers short-term crop loans of up to Rs 3 lakh at 7 per cent interest, with an additional 3% subvention for timely repayment. As of January 2024, 465.42 lakh new Kisan Credit Card applications have been sanctioned, amounting to Rs 5.7 lakh crores in credit.
5. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
Launched under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Package, AIF provides Rs 1 lakh crore for agricultural infrastructure projects with interest subvention and credit guarantee benefits. By December 2023, Rs 33,209 crores have been sanctioned for 44,912 projects, mobilising investments worth Rs 56,471 crores.
6. Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs
The government initiated the formation and promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in 2020 with a budget of Rs 6,865 crore. As of now, 9,411 FPOs have been established, involving 26.17 lakh beneficiary farmers. This initiative aims to encourage collective farming, improve market access, and enhance farmers’ income through better resource utilization and collective decision-making.
7. National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)
Launched in 2020 under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, NBHM promotes scientific beekeeping for the “Sweet Revolution.” Achievements include the establishment of honey testing labs, registration of 23 lakh bee colonies, and formation of 88 honey FPOs.
8. Market Intervention Scheme and Price Support Scheme (MIS-PSS)
MIS-PSS protects farmers from distress sales by procuring perishable commodities and ensuring minimum support prices for pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
9. Namo Drone Didi Scheme
Launched for 2024–2026, this scheme provides drones to 15,000 Women SHGs at an 80% subsidy for agricultural use. It aims to generate sustainable income and employment opportunities for women in agriculture.
10. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
RKVY focuses on creating agricultural infrastructure to support farmers and boost allied activities. Since 2019, 1,524 agri-startups have been funded with grants worth ₹106.25 crores to promote innovation in agriculture.
11. Soil Health Card (SHC)
The Soil Health Card provides farmers with information about their soil’s nutrient status and recommendations for nutrient application. It is part of a decentralized soil testing system to create a nationwide soil fertility map on a GIS platform, aiding real-time decision-making. The Government of India aims to collect 5 crore soil samples between 2023-2026.
12. Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
Implemented since 2014-15, RAD promotes Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) in rainfed areas using cluster-based approaches. It supports multi-cropping and allied activities like horticulture, livestock, and apiculture, improving farm returns and resilience to extreme weather events. Over 7.13 lakh hectares have been covered under the program, with Rs 1,673.58 crores allocated.
13. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
Launched in 2015-16, this scheme enhances water use efficiency through micro-irrigation technologies like drip and sprinkler systems, reducing water, fertilizer, and labor costs. It has covered 78 lakh hectares, with additional support for water harvesting and management activities.
14. Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF)
A fund of Rs 5,000 crore was created with NABARD to expand micro-irrigation coverage, offering loans to states at subsidized interest rates. With plans to double the fund to ₹10,000 crore, loans worth ₹4,710.96 crore have been approved, and Rs 2,812.24 crore has been disbursed.
15. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
This scheme promotes organic farming in clusters of 20 hectares, encouraging soil fertility and healthy food production without agro-chemicals. Assistance of ₹31,500 per hectare is provided, benefiting farmers directly via DBT.
16. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)
Since 2014, SMAM has focused on increasing mechanization access for small farmers, promoting Custom Hiring Centres, and supporting high-tech equipment. ₹6,748.78 crore has been allocated, distributing over 15 lakh machines and promoting drone technology for farming.
17. Crop Residue Management (CRM)
Introduced in 2018-19, CRM aims to prevent air pollution and nutrient loss from crop residue burning. It supports in-situ residue management machinery, with ₹3,333.17 crore allocated and over 2.95 lakh machines distributed.
18. Agro-Forestry
Launched under the National Agro-forestry Policy 2014, this program encourages tree plantations on farmland to improve farmer livelihoods. It supports Quality Planting Materials and certification for sustainable agroforestry practices.
19. National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
NFSM focuses on increasing the production of staple crops and restoring soil fertility. Initiatives include Millet Missions across 13 states and establishing 25 seed hubs to support India’s millet ecosystem.
20. Sub-Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP)
SMSP strengthens the seed production chain and infrastructure, ensuring quality seed availability and creating a seed bank for emergencies. The SATHI portal was launched to monitor seed traceability and inventory.
21. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oil Palm
Launched in 2021, this mission promotes oil palm cultivation to achieve self-reliance in edible oils, focusing on the North-East and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, with a target of 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26.
22. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
Since 2014, MIDH has supported the growth of fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers. Key activities include organic farming, protected cultivation, and marketing infrastructure. Over 12.95 lakh hectares have been developed under MIDH.
23. National Bamboo Mission (NBM)
NBM promotes the bamboo value chain through plantations, nurseries, processing units, and capacity building. It has facilitated the establishment of 46,000 hectares of bamboo plantations and 497 value-addition units.
24. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM)
ISAM enhances agricultural marketing through better infrastructure, capacity building, and e-NAM integration. Over 1,389 mandis across 23 states and 4 UTs are linked, benefiting 1.76 crore farmers.
25. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)
Since 2015, this mission has developed certified organic clusters in the Northeast, supporting farmers through input provision, processing, and marketing. It covers over 1.7 lakh hectares and benefits 1.89 lakh farmers.
26. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE)
SMAE disseminates technology through district-level ATMA. Digital tools like VISTAAR and AI-driven platforms enable farmer education, weather forecasting, and impact assessment of schemes.
27. Digital Agriculture
On September 2, 2024, the Union Cabinet launched the Digital Agriculture Mission with a budget of ₹2,817 crore, including ₹1,940 crore from the Centre. This comprehensive initiative supports the development of digital infrastructure for agriculture, including implementing the Digital General Crop Estimate Survey (DGCES). The mission involves collaboration between central and state governments, as well as academic and research institutions, to modernize and digitalize India’s agricultural practices.
28. Clean Plant Programme (CPP)
The Union Cabinet approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) on August 9, 2024, with an outlay of ₹1,765.67 crore. The programme aims to enhance the quality and productivity of horticultural crops by providing disease-free planting materials. It also focuses on spreading and adopting climate-resilient varieties that offer increased yields, ensuring a sustainable and robust agricultural sector.
29.Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR based Pledge Financing (CGS-NPF)
The Government of India introduced the Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR based Pledge Financing (CGS-NPF) on December 16, 2024, with a corpus of ₹1,000 crore. This scheme facilitates post-harvest financing by allowing farmers to avail loans using electronic negotiable warehouse receipts (e-NWRs) issued by Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA)-approved warehouses. It provides financial support to farmers and encourages better post-harvest management of produce.
30. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
Launched on November 25, 2024, the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with a total budget of ₹2,481 crore (₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states). The mission promotes chemical-free and sustainable natural farming practices across the nation. It seeks to ensure environmental conservation and enhance the long-term health of Indian farmlands.
The government initiated the formation and promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in 2020 with a budget of Rs 6,865 crore. As of now, 9,411 FPOs have been established, involving 26.17 lakh beneficiary farmers. This initiative aims to encourage collective farming, improve market access, and enhance farmers’ income through better resource utilization and collective decision-making.
Transformative Budgetary Growth in Agriculture
The government has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the agricultural sector by significantly enhancing budgetary allocations since 2014. In the 2013-14 fiscal year, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare operated with a budget of Rs. 21,933.50 crore. Over a decade, this allocation has seen a transformative increase, reaching an impressive Rs. 1,22,528.77 crore for the 2024-25 fiscal year—over five and a half times the original amount.
This historic surge in funding underscores the government’s strategic focus on prioritizing agriculture to tackle challenges faced by farmers and promote sustainable development. Key areas of investment include modernizing farming techniques, improving rural infrastructure, enhancing access to credit, and supporting various agricultural schemes. The unprecedented budget allocation not only boosts farmer welfare but also seeks to elevate agricultural productivity and rural prosperity, reaffirming the government’s dedication to this vital sector.
Strengthening MSP Outreach for Farmers
To ensure the benefits of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system reach a larger number of farmers, the Government of India has established a committee aimed at improving its efficiency and transparency. This initiative focuses on addressing challenges in the MSP system by evaluating the feasibility of granting greater autonomy to the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The committee will also explore ways to make the process of determining MSPs more scientific and data-driven.
Currently, the MSP framework covers 22 major agricultural commodities, including 14 Kharif crops, 6 Rabi crops, and 2 commercial crops. Additionally, MSPs for Toria and de-husked coconut are set based on the existing MSPs of rapeseed, mustard, and copra. By strengthening these mechanisms, the government aims to enhance farmer welfare and ensure fair prices for their produce.
Growth in Institutional Credit to Agriculture
Institutional credit to agriculture has witnessed remarkable growth since 2014-15, more than doubling from ₹8 lakh crore to ₹20 lakh crore in 2023-24. This significant increase reflects the government’s emphasis on supporting the agricultural sector through financial inclusion and accessibility. Additionally, the disbursement of easy and concessional crop loans has surged, rising from ₹6.4 lakh crore in 2014-15 to ₹14.79 lakh crore in 2023-24. These measures have played a pivotal role in empowering farmers, ensuring timely credit availability, and boosting agricultural productivity across the nation.
Record Foodgrain Production in 2023-24
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has announced record-breaking foodgrain production for the agricultural year 2023-24, estimated at 3322.98 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), surpassing the previous year’s total by 26.11 LMT. This increase has been attributed to higher yields of rice, wheat, and Shree Anna, achieved despite challenges such as drought-like conditions in southern states and prolonged dry spells in Rajasthan. The introduction of the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES) has significantly enhanced the accuracy and transparency of yield estimates, further bolstering the credibility of these figures. Rice production reached a record 1378.25 LMT, an increase of 20.70 LMT from the previous year, while wheat production surged to 1132.92 LMT, marking a rise of 27.38 LMT.
Challenges in Pulse and Oilseed Production
Despite the overall success, drought-induced moisture stress impacted the production of pulses, coarse cereals, soybeans, and cotton during 2023-24, especially in the Rabi season. The total production of pulses stood at 242.46 LMT, with tur contributing 34.17 LMT and gram 110.39 LMT. Meanwhile, oilseed production totaled 396.69 LMT, with notable contributions from soybean (130.62 LMT) and rapeseed & mustard, which reached a record 132.59 LMT. Sugarcane and cotton production also remained significant, with estimates at 4531.58 LMT and 325.22 lakh bales, respectively. These figures underscore both the resilience of Indian agriculture and the areas requiring focused interventions to counter climate-induced stress.
Revolutionising Farmer Safety: The Kisan Kavach Innovation
The Kisan Kavach represents a transformative step in safeguarding farmers from the harmful effects of pesticide exposure. Developed collaboratively by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, and Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd., this full-body protective suit is a testament to cutting-edge science applied for social welfare. Priced at an affordable ₹4,000, the Kisan Kavach integrates advanced fabric technology that neutralizes pesticides upon contact, significantly reducing the risks of toxicity. Washable, reusable, and capable of enduring up to 150 washes, the suit ensures long-term utility and sustainability. By protecting farmers like Preetam Singh, who have long faced health hazards due to pesticide exposure, the Kisan Kavach empowers the agricultural workforce while promoting safer farming practices.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: From GAP to Biopesticides
The Indian government has been proactive in addressing the challenges posed by excessive pesticide use, focusing on sustainability and safety through Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and biopesticide promotion. GAP emphasizes environmentally responsible farming, ensuring food safety and opening new market opportunities for farmers. Complementing this, the government has streamlined the registration process for biopesticides under the Insecticides Act, 1968, encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which prioritizes biopesticides and plant-origin solutions like neem-based formulations, further supports this shift. Collectively, these initiatives aim to reduce chemical pesticide consumption, safeguard health, and enhance the environmental sustainability of Indian agriculture.
On this National Farmers’ Day, as we honor the tireless efforts of our Annadatas, it is essential to acknowledge the transformative policies and initiatives driven by PM Modi’s leadership. His dedication to empowering farmers has laid the foundation for a self-reliant, resilient, and sustainable agricultural future. Let us pledge to support our farmers and celebrate their invaluable contributions in building a prosperous and progressive India.
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