What is Pradhanmantri Kisan Sampada (SAMPADA) Yojana? Mention its objectives and provisions.

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Points to Remember:

  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship scheme focused on agricultural infrastructure development.
  • It aims to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance value addition in the agricultural sector.
  • The scheme encompasses various components addressing different aspects of the agricultural value chain.

Introduction:

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), launched in 2016, is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at creating modern infrastructure for post-harvest management of agricultural produce. India, being an agrarian economy, faces significant post-harvest losses due to inadequate storage, processing, and transportation facilities. PMKSY directly addresses this challenge by providing financial and technical assistance for developing infrastructure across the agricultural value chain. The scheme recognizes that efficient post-harvest management is crucial for improving farmers’ income, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Body:

1. Objectives of PMKSY:

The primary objectives of PMKSY are multifaceted:

  • Reducing Post-Harvest Losses: A significant portion of agricultural produce is lost due to improper storage, transportation, and processing. PMKSY aims to minimize these losses through improved infrastructure.
  • Increasing Farmers’ Income: By reducing losses and enhancing value addition, the scheme aims to significantly improve the income of farmers.
  • Promoting Value Addition: PMKSY encourages the establishment of processing units and cold storage facilities to add value to agricultural products, thereby increasing their market value.
  • Creating Employment Opportunities: The development of infrastructure under PMKSY creates employment opportunities in rural areas, contributing to economic growth.
  • Improving Food Security: By reducing post-harvest losses, PMKSY contributes to enhanced food security and availability of agricultural products.
  • Enhancing Export Potential: Improved quality and processing of agricultural products through PMKSY can boost India’s agricultural exports.

2. Provisions of PMKSY:

PMKSY encompasses several components, each focusing on a specific aspect of the agricultural value chain:

  • Mega Food Parks: These parks integrate various processing and storage facilities, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for food processing.
  • Cold Chains: Development of cold storage facilities at various levels, from farm-gate to retail, to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of perishable agricultural products.
  • Value Chain Development: Support for developing value chains for specific agricultural commodities, focusing on improving processing, packaging, and marketing.
  • Infrastructure Development: Financial assistance for creating infrastructure such as warehousing, transportation, and packaging facilities.
  • Technology Upgradation: Promoting the adoption of advanced technologies in post-harvest management, such as improved storage techniques and processing methods.

3. Implementation and Challenges:

PMKSY is implemented through a collaborative approach involving central and state governments, as well as private sector participation. However, challenges remain:

  • Land Acquisition: Securing land for infrastructure development can be a significant hurdle.
  • Funding Constraints: Adequate funding is crucial for the successful implementation of the scheme.
  • Coordination Issues: Effective coordination between different stakeholders is essential for smooth implementation.
  • Technological Adoption: Farmers’ adoption of new technologies and best practices needs to be encouraged.

Conclusion:

PMKSY is a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the significant post-harvest losses in India’s agricultural sector. By focusing on infrastructure development, value addition, and technology upgradation, the scheme has the potential to significantly improve farmers’ income, enhance food security, and boost the agricultural economy. While challenges remain in its implementation, continued efforts towards addressing funding constraints, streamlining coordination mechanisms, and promoting technology adoption are crucial for realizing the full potential of PMKSY. A holistic approach involving public-private partnerships, capacity building, and awareness campaigns can ensure the long-term success of this vital scheme, contributing to sustainable agricultural development and promoting the constitutional values of social and economic justice. The focus should be on creating a robust and resilient agricultural infrastructure that benefits all stakeholders, from farmers to consumers.

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