Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is an important initiative launched by the Government of India to promote organic farming and sustainable agriculture. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare with the aim of encouraging farmers to adopt chemical-free farming methods and improve soil health.
In recent years, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has affected soil fertility, crop quality, and environmental health. To address this issue, the government introduced PKVY to support farmers in shifting toward eco-friendly, low-cost, and sustainable farming practices.
Under this scheme, farmers are encouraged to produce chemical-free and pesticide-free agricultural products, which are healthier for consumers and beneficial for the environment. The scheme also promotes organic certification through Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India), which is a locally based certification system built on trust and participation of farmers and consumers.
The Government of India has set a target to bring around 6,00,000 hectares of land under organic farming by 2025-26 through this scheme.
Objectives of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
The PKVY scheme has several important objectives aimed at transforming the agricultural sector and supporting farmers.
1. Promotion of Organic Farming
The main objective of the scheme is to encourage farmers to adopt organic farming practices instead of chemical-based agriculture.
2. Improve Soil Health
Organic farming helps in maintaining soil fertility by using natural fertilizers, compost, and organic nutrients.
3. Reduce Farming Costs
The scheme promotes low-cost traditional farming methods, which reduce the dependence of farmers on expensive chemical inputs.
4. Production of Chemical-Free Food
PKVY focuses on producing safe, nutritious, and chemical-free agricultural products for human consumption.
5. Environmental Protection
Organic farming reduces the harmful impact of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on soil, water, and biodiversity.
6. Strengthen Farmer Groups
Farmers are organized into clusters and groups so they can collectively manage production, certification, and marketing.
7. Improve Farmers’ Income
The scheme helps farmers access local and national markets for organic products, which can increase their income.
Key Features of PKVY Scheme
-
Promotion of sustainable and eco-friendly agriculture
-
Development of organic farming clusters
-
Certification through PGS-India system
-
Training and awareness programs for farmers
-
Market linkages for organic produce
-
Support for value addition and processing
The scheme is implemented with financial support from both the Central Government and State Governments.
Funding Pattern
-
60:40 ratio between Centre and States
-
90:10 ratio for Northeastern and Himalayan States
-
100% central funding for Union Territories
Benefits of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
Farmers receive several benefits under this scheme.
1. Promotion of Organic Agriculture
Farmers are encouraged to shift from chemical farming to organic and sustainable agriculture.
2. Improvement in Soil Fertility
Organic methods improve soil structure, microbial activity, and long-term productivity.
3. Chemical-Free Food Production
Consumers benefit from healthy and nutritious organic food products.
4. Market Opportunities
Farmers can directly connect with local markets and national markets to sell their organic products.
5. Farmer Empowerment
Farmers become part of organized groups and clusters, which increases their bargaining power.
6. Value Addition Support
Farmers receive assistance in processing, packaging, and certification of organic products.
Eligibility Criteria
Farmers who wish to benefit from the PKVY scheme must meet the following conditions:
-
All individual farmers and institutions can apply
-
Maximum land holding should be up to 2 hectares
-
Farmers should be willing to adopt organic farming practices
The scheme mainly targets small and marginal farmers.
Documents Required
To apply for the scheme, farmers need the following documents:
-
Aadhaar Card
-
Land ownership documents
-
Bank account details
-
Mobile number
-
Passport-size photographs
-
Caste certificate (if applicable)
-
DPR (Detailed Project Report)
The required documents may vary depending on the state and type of project.
Application Process
Currently, the application process for PKVY is mainly offline and coordinated through regional councils.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Farmers should contact the Regional Council or Agriculture Department of their state.
Step 2: The Regional Council collects applications from farmers and prepares an Annual Action Plan.
Step 3: The Action Plan is submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Step 4: The Central Government releases funds to the State Government.
Step 5: The State Government distributes the funds to Regional Councils, which then support farmers and farmer groups.
Importance of Organic Farming in India
Organic farming is becoming increasingly important due to its long-term benefits for agriculture and the environment.
Some key advantages include:
-
Preservation of soil fertility
-
Reduction in environmental pollution
-
Improved biodiversity
-
Production of healthier food
-
Sustainable agricultural development
Schemes like PKVY help farmers transition from traditional chemical farming to sustainable organic agriculture.
official website click here
Conclusion
The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is a major step by the Government of India to promote organic farming and sustainable agriculture. By encouraging chemical-free farming methods, improving soil health, and providing market support, the scheme aims to increase farmers’ income and ensure the availability of safe and nutritious food for the population.
Farmers interested in organic farming can benefit greatly from this scheme by joining organic clusters and farmer groups under PKVY.
Best Useful Android Apps by Google:
- Read Along by Google Android App: Click Here
- Download Google Maps App: Click Here
- Download Google Pay – Secure UPI Payment App: Click Here
- Google Find My Device Android App: Click Here
- Google Arts & Culture Android App: Click Here
- Download Google Translate Android App: Click Here
Sources and references: Click Here