PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)

The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), launched in July 2015, is a flagship Government of India program aimed at revolutionizing irrigation practices in the country. With the tagline "Har Khet Ko Pani" (water for every field) and "More crop per drop," PMKSY focuses on a holistic approach to irrigation management.

Key Objectives of PMKSY

1. Expanding Irrigation Coverage: The scheme aims to bring more cultivable land under assured irrigation, ensuring water security for farmers.
2. Enhancing Water Use Efficiency: PMKSY promotes precision irrigation techniques like micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) to minimize water wastage and maximize crop yield.
3. End-to-End Solutions: The program addresses all aspects of irrigation, from creating new water sources (surface and groundwater) to ensuring efficient distribution, on-farm management, and extension activities.

Components of PMKSY

PMKSY is an umbrella scheme with three main components, each handled by a designated ministry:

1. Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP)

Led by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, AIBP focuses on faster completion of ongoing major and medium irrigation projects, including national projects.

2. PMKSY-Har Khet Ko Pani

This component, also under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, prioritizes creating new water sources through minor irrigation projects, renovating traditional water bodies, and constructing rainwater harvesting structures.

3. PMKSY-Watershed Development

Managed by the Department of Land Resources, this component promotes water harvesting structures like check dams and farm ponds within watersheds.

Conclusion

PMKSY is a critical initiative for India's agricultural sector. By ensuring water reaches every field and optimizing water usage, PMKSY empowers farmers to cultivate more crops, improve yield, and achieve greater income security. This contributes significantly to India's food security and rural prosperity.