Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani”

Introduction 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” is a national irrigation scheme launched by the Government of India in 2015 to improve water access for farmers. Many parts of India face problems of uneven rainfall, poor irrigation systems, and high dependence on monsoon, which often lead to low crop productivity. This scheme was designed to solve these issues by creating assured irrigation to every farm, expanding cultivated land under irrigation, and promoting better use of water resources. Through watershed development, micro‑irrigation, and improved infrastructure like canals and groundwater projects, it helps farmers get reliable water supply for their fields.

The policy need behind this programme is clear: agriculture cannot grow sustainably without assured irrigation, especially when climate change and erratic rainfall affect small and marginal farmers the most. PMKSY – Har Khet Ko Pani covers farmers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and agri‑entrepreneurs who can benefit from its projects. The scheme also links with state governments to implement on‑ground works. For farmers, the benefits include higher crop yield, reduced water wastage, and more income stability. With a simple eligibility and application process through state agriculture departments, PMKSY continues to support Indian agriculture as a vital development policy.

Overview of the Scheme

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” was launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (formerly Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation) in 2015. The scheme aims to ensure water availability to every farm and improve water use efficiency in agriculture through a range of integrated irrigation initiatives.

The implementing agencies include the Department of Agriculture at the state level, Ministry of Jal Shakti at the central level, and other state line departments responsible for agriculture, water resources, and rural development. At the national level, the PMKSY Mission Directorate oversees the programme supported by committees such as the National Steering Committee and the National Executive Committee.

The funding pattern for the scheme varies by region: for most states, the cost sharing is 60% from the Central Government and 40% from the State Government. In the North-Eastern and Himalayan states, it is 90% central and 10% state-funded. For Union Territories, the scheme is funded 100% by the Central Government. States have the flexibility to choose their dedicated implementing agencies.

PMKSY covers various components, including watershed development, micro-irrigation, on-farm water management, and accelerated irrigation benefit programmes. It also promotes the efficient use of irrigation through precision tools like sprinklers and drip systems. For example, farmers using micro-irrigation can save water while increasing crop yield.

Currently, PMKSY is an ongoing flagship scheme encouraging states to plan and execute irrigation projects with decentralised planning and with a vision for sustainable water management.

Key Points:

• Launched by Government of India, Ministry of Jal Shakti, 2015
• Implemented by state agriculture and water departments
• Funding pattern: 60:40 (Central:State), 90:10 for NE/Himalayan states, 100% Central for UTs
• Components include watershed development, micro-irrigation, accelerated irrigation, on-farm water management
• Ongoing scheme with national and state-level coordination for better irrigation coverage and water use efficiency

This overview of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” explains its structure, funding, and coverage to support Indian farmers in sustainable irrigation development.

Objectives 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” has clear objectives focused on improving irrigation and water use efficiency in agriculture across India. These objectives guide the scheme’s purpose and goals to benefit farmers through better water management and assured irrigation.

The main objectives of PMKSY are:

• Achieve convergence of irrigation investments at the field level through district and sub-district water use plans.
• Expand the cultivable area under assured and protective irrigation, fulfilling the “Har Khet Ko Pani” goal.
• Improve on-farm water use efficiency to reduce water wastage and increase water availability both in quantity and duration.
• Promote the adoption of precision irrigation and other water-saving technologies to ensure “More Crop Per Drop.”
• Enhance recharge of groundwater aquifers and implement sustainable water conservation practices.
• Support integrated development of rainfed areas using watershed approaches for soil and water conservation, groundwater regeneration, and runoff control.
• Encourage extension activities to educate farmers and grassroots workers about water harvesting, water management, and crop alignment.
• Explore the feasibility of reusing treated municipal wastewater for peri-urban agriculture.
• Increase private investment in irrigation projects to improve coverage and sustainability.

These objectives ensure that PMKSY achieves better water access, efficient irrigation, and sustainable agriculture, supporting farmers’ livelihoods and rural prosperity in India. The scheme’s designed goals clearly respond to the challenges of water scarcity and provide practical solutions for modern farming needs.

Key Features / Benefits 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” offers several key features and benefits designed to improve irrigation and water use efficiency for farmers across India. These features directly support agricultural productivity and sustainability with official assistance and subsidies.

• Assured Irrigation Access: PMKSY aims to provide irrigation to every farm, ensuring reliable water supply for crops to improve yield and reduce dependence on rainfall.
• Subsidy on Micro-Irrigation Systems: Farmers receive financial support for drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, which save water and increase crop output. (Example: Small and marginal farmers may get up to 55% subsidy on drip irrigation installation.)
• Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP): This component fast-tracks major and medium irrigation infrastructure projects for tribal and drought-prone areas, expanding water availability.
• Command Area Development and Water Management: Focuses on efficient water use in command areas of irrigation projects, improving water distribution and reducing wastage.
• Surface Minor Irrigation Support: Grants are available for small-scale irrigation schemes like ponds and canals to serve local farming areas.
• Repair, Renovation, and Restoration of Water Bodies: Funding is given to restore traditional water tanks and ponds, enhancing water storage capacity for irrigation.
• Groundwater Development Assistance: Support is provided for groundwater-based irrigation through well recharge and sustainable extraction methods.
• Watershed Development Component: Helps in soil and water conservation, groundwater recharge, and improving rainfed areas through scientific watershed management.
• Convergence with MGNREGA: PMKSY projects often integrate with the rural employment scheme MGNREGA for labor-intensive irrigation and watershed works.
• Training and Capacity Building: Farmers and local officials receive training on water-saving practices, efficient irrigation, and crop-water management.

Overall, these features of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” provide financial assistance, infrastructure development, and technical knowledge to improve irrigation coverage and water efficiency, directly benefiting India’s farming community. This agriculture scheme supports sustainable farming and helps increase farmers’ income by ensuring adequate water for crops.

Eligibility Criteria 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” eligibility criteria are designed to include a wide range of agricultural stakeholders while ensuring proper documentation and verification for scheme benefits. The eligibility and required documents vary by beneficiary type, making it easier for the correct applicants to access assistance.

Farmers

• Farmers of any size or category, including small, marginal, and tenant farmers, are eligible if they are engaged in agricultural activities on owned or leased land.
• Applicants must be Indian citizens.
• Proof of land ownership or lease agreement is required to ensure the farm’s eligibility.
• Official identity such as Aadhaar card, land records, and bank account details are mandatory to verify the farmer and enable subsidy transfers.
• Age and residency proofs may be needed for formal application but are generally flexible.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• SHGs must be formally registered and active with a bank linkage for subsidy facilitation.
• They should have a good repayment and activity record to qualify for group benefits under the scheme.

Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)

• FPOs need formal registration as Producer Companies under the Companies Act.
• They must have a minimum number of active members engaged in farming activities.
• FPOs should produce operational documents such as meeting minutes and financial accounts to demonstrate active functioning.

Entrepreneurs, Startups, and MSMEs

• Eligible if registered under appropriate government schemes like UDYAM or GST.
• Must provide valid registration documents to be considered for assistance related to irrigation services or machinery.

Special Categories

• Certain additional benefits or relaxed conditions may apply for women farmers, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and states in the North-East or Himalayan regions, as specified by the government.

Not Eligible

• Applicants engaged in non-agricultural activities or without proper land records are generally excluded.
• Duplicate applications or those already receiving similar benefits under other schemes may be disqualified.

Mandatory Documents

• Aadhaar Card for identity verification.
• Land Ownership Documents or Lease Agreements to confirm farming activity.
• Bank Passbook for subsidy transfer.
• Proof of registration for SHGs, FPOs, Entrepreneurs (if applicable).
• Detailed Project Report (DPR) and quotations may be needed for larger irrigation projects.

This eligibility framework ensures that Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” reaches the right beneficiaries and supports effective water management in agriculture with clear criteria and necessary documents.

Application Process

The application process for Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” can be done both online and offline, making it accessible to farmers and other beneficiaries across India. The steps below outline how to apply through official channels in a simple way.

• Where to Apply:

Applicants can apply online through the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s official portal for PMKSY: https://pmksy.gov.in/. Some states may have dedicated state portals or the MahaDBT portal for micro-irrigation components. Offline applications can be submitted at the nearest Agriculture Department office, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), ATMA office, or Block Development office.

• Registration/Login:

For online applications, register as a new user on the PMKSY portal or the respective state portal, providing valid mobile number and Aadhaar details. If already registered, log in using your credentials.

• Filling the Application Form:

The form typically includes sections for beneficiary details (name, address, contact), land/farm details (ownership, survey number), selected scheme components (e.g., micro-irrigation, water conservation), and bank account information for subsidy transfer.

• Documents to Upload:

Upload scanned copies or photos of Aadhaar Card, land ownership or lease documents, bank passbook, project proposal (if required), quotations for equipment or installation, and registration certificates (for SHGs/FPOs/entrepreneurs).

• Application Fee:

Generally, there is no application fee for PMKSY schemes.

• Acknowledgment:

After submission, applicants receive an application ID or acknowledgment number for future reference and tracking.

• Verification and Field Inspection:

Authorities may conduct a physical inspection of the farm or project site to verify details before final approval.

• Approval and Assistance Release:

Upon approval, financial assistance is released directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Timelines vary by state and project type but generally take a few weeks to months.

• Offline Application Process:

Visit the nearest Agriculture Department or KVK office and collect the application form. Fill in details as required, attach supporting documents, and submit the form to the designated officer. Seek help from extension officers for guidance.

• Helpline and Support:

For queries or assistance, contact the PMKSY helpline via Ministry of Jal Shakti or state agriculture department helplines. Official websites often list contact numbers and emails for support.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Ensure the beneficiary name matches exactly across Aadhaar, land records, and bank account details.
• Upload clear and legible documents, especially land ownership and bank passbook.
• Choose the correct scheme component and provide all requested information to avoid delays.
• Submit the application before the deadline announced by the state or central government.

By following this structured application process, eligible individuals and groups can easily apply online or offline for benefits under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani,” supporting improved irrigation and water management for agriculture.

Challenges or Limitations 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” faces some common challenges and limitations as reported in official studies and beneficiary feedback. Understanding these hurdles helps farmers and implementers navigate the scheme better and achieve results more smoothly.

• Delay in sanctioning approvals → Plan ahead and submit complete documents early.

Many beneficiaries experience long waiting times for approval due to verification or administrative processes. Early application with proper documents can speed up processing.

• High initial investment and upfront costs → Use subsidy benefit advice and local extension support.

Farmers often must pay full costs initially and wait for subsidy reimbursement, which can be unaffordable. Seeking guidance from agricultural officers helps manage finances and timelines.

• Occasional poor-quality equipment supplied → Verify and request standard quality materials through authorized dealers.

Sometimes drip or sprinkler system parts may be substandard or clog easily. Choosing certified dealers and regular maintenance help avoid this issue.

• Lack of awareness and training on scheme use → Attend training sessions and seek support from extension services regularly.

Insufficient knowledge about operation and maintenance reduces benefits. Regular farmer training improves success.

• Irregular power supply affects irrigation → Explore solar or alternative pumps supported under state schemes.

Unreliable electricity limits scheme impact. Migrating to solar solutions where possible ensures uninterrupted water supply.

• Inadequate extension and field support → Maintain contact with local agriculture and watershed officials.

Active support makes implementation easier. Reporting issues promptly aids timely resolution.

• Documentation mismatches or outdated land records → Keep land ownership papers and Aadhaar updated to prevent rejection.

Properly maintained documents reduce verification delays.

• Limited budget headroom at state levels → Apply early and track fund release with local officials.

Some states face budget constraints causing slow rollout; beneficiary follow-up helps ensure funds allocation.

These challenges to Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” are common but manageable with proactive steps. Awareness, preparation, and sustained engagement with scheme officials greatly enhance the chances of timely assistance and better water management outcomes in agriculture.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” works closely with several other agricultural missions and schemes to provide holistic support to farmers and farming groups. This convergence allows efficient use of resources and creates integrated development opportunities in agriculture.

The scheme links with important programmes such as PM-KISAN (income support to farmers), PMFBY (crop insurance), PMFME (micro food enterprises), ATMA (agriculture extension), NFSM (National Food Security Mission), and RKVY (state agriculture development). For example, a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) can use PMKSY’s assured irrigation facilities alongside PM-KISAN financial support and PMFBY insurance to enhance productivity while safeguarding income.

Since its launch in 2015, PMKSY has been periodically updated. The current plan phase runs through 2021–26, focusing on strengthening convergence, promoting advanced micro-irrigation, watershed management, and effective water budgeting. The National Steering Committee chaired by the Prime Minister and NITI Aayog’s National Executive Committee oversee program coordination and integration with other missions.

Looking ahead, this linked approach under PMKSY and allied schemes aims to ensure sustainable water use, increase farm incomes, and boost rural prosperity through technology and coordinated action. This convergence strategy is central to the future success of India’s agricultural water security and farmer welfare.

Conclusion 

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani” plays a crucial role in improving irrigation coverage and water use in Indian agriculture, benefiting farmers across all regions. The scheme helps farmers get assured water supply for their fields, leading to increased crop yields and more stable incomes. Small and marginal farmers, along with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and entrepreneurs involved in irrigation projects, gain the most from its benefits.

For those interested in applying, the first step is to check eligibility and application details on the official PMKSY portal at https://pmksy.gov.in/. Preparing the required documents like Aadhaar card, land records, and bank details helps smooth processing. Farmers should also connect with local agriculture offices or extension services for guidance.

It is important to regularly verify the latest updates, guidelines, and timelines on the official portal or through the scheme’s helpline, as policies and subsidies may change. Applying with full knowledge ensures better access to the scheme’s benefits under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – “Har Khet Ko Pani.”

Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.