PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) – Irrigation Scheme for Farmers

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India with the vision of "Har Khet Ko Pani" (water for every field) and "Per Drop More Crop" (efficient water use). The scheme aims to expand irrigation coverage, improve water-use efficiency, and promote sustainable farming through micro-irrigation technologies.

What is PMKSY?

PMKSY is an umbrella scheme that brings together various irrigation and water management programmes under one framework. It focuses on:

• Expanding irrigated area through new irrigation projects
• Promoting micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) for water efficiency
• Watershed development for rainfed areas
• Water harvesting and groundwater recharge at farm level

The scheme is implemented jointly by the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Jal Shakti, and Ministry of Rural Development.

Components of PMKSY

1. Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP)

• Focuses on completing ongoing major and medium irrigation projects
• Priority given to projects nearing completion
• Implemented by Ministry of Jal Shakti

2. Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP)

• Surface Minor Irrigation — new water sources for unirrigated areas
• Repair, Renovation, and Restoration (RRR) of water bodies
• Groundwater development in water-surplus areas
• Command Area Development & Water Management (CADWM) — canal lining, field channels

3. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)

• The most farmer-relevant component
• Provides subsidy on micro-irrigation — drip irrigation and sprinkler systems
• 55% subsidy for small and marginal farmers
• 45% subsidy for other farmers
• Additional state top-up subsidy available in many states
• Implemented through State Agriculture/Horticulture Departments

4. Watershed Development

• Focuses on rainfed and degraded lands
• Soil moisture conservation, water harvesting structures
• Implemented by Department of Land Resources

Who is Eligible?

For Per Drop More Crop (Micro-Irrigation Subsidy)

• All farmers with agricultural land — small, marginal, and large
• Farmer groups — Water User Associations, cooperative societies
• Higher subsidy (55%) for small and marginal farmers (up to 2 hectares / 5 acres)
• Standard subsidy (45%) for other farmers
• Land ownership documents required
• Tenant farmers eligible in some states with landowner's consent

Documents Required

Identity & Land Documents

• Aadhaar card
• Land ownership proof (khasra/khatauni, patta)
• Bank account details (for subsidy transfer via DBT)
• Caste certificate (for SC/ST farmers seeking additional benefits)

Scheme-Specific Documents

• Farm plan/layout with area measurement
• Quotation from empanelled micro-irrigation supplier
• Passport-size photographs
• Mobile number linked to Aadhaar

How to Apply for Micro-Irrigation Subsidy

Online Application

1. Visit your State Agriculture/Horticulture Department portal (each state has its own system)
2. Register with your Aadhaar number and mobile number
3. Login and select "PMKSY – Per Drop More Crop" or "Micro Irrigation" scheme
4. Fill in details — land area, crop details, type of irrigation system (drip/sprinkler)
5. Upload required documents — land records, Aadhaar, bank details
6. Select an empanelled micro-irrigation company/supplier
7. Submit the application
8. After approval, purchase and install the system
9. Agriculture department officer will inspect the installation
10. Subsidy credited to your bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

Offline Application

1. Visit your District Agriculture Office or Block Development Office
2. Collect the PMKSY/micro-irrigation application form
3. Fill in details and attach required documents
4. Submit at the agriculture office
5. Officer will verify and approve based on target allocation
6. After installation and inspection, subsidy is released

Subsidy Details

Key Benefits

• Major cost savings on irrigation equipment through subsidy
• Water savings of 30-50% compared to flood irrigation
• Higher crop yields — micro-irrigation improves water-use efficiency
• Reduced electricity/fuel costs for pumping water
• Fertigation support — drip systems allow fertiliser application through water
• Available across India — implemented in all states and UTs
• Direct Benefit Transfer — subsidy credited directly to farmer's bank account

Important Tips

1. Apply early — each state has limited annual targets, and subsidies are allocated on first-come-first-served basis
2. Choose an empanelled supplier — only buy equipment from government-approved companies to ensure subsidy eligibility
3. Don't install before approval — wait for department approval before purchasing and installing the system
4. Combine with KCC — use your Kisan Credit Card loan to fund your share of the cost
5. Check state-specific portals — subsidy amounts and processes vary by state; check your state agriculture website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the subsidy percentage for drip irrigation under PMKSY?

Small and marginal farmers get 55% subsidy, and other farmers get 45% subsidy from the central government. Many states provide additional top-up subsidy of 10-30%.

Can tenant farmers apply for micro-irrigation subsidy?

In most states, tenant farmers can apply with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landowner. Rules vary by state.

Which crops are covered under the micro-irrigation subsidy?

All crops are eligible — cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, flowers, spices, and plantation crops. Drip irrigation is especially promoted for horticulture crops.

How long does it take to receive the subsidy?

After installation and inspection by the agriculture department, the subsidy is typically credited within 30-60 days via DBT.

Is there a minimum land area required?

Most states require a minimum of 0.5 hectare (approximately 1.25 acres) for micro-irrigation subsidy, but this varies by state.

Can I get subsidy for both drip and sprinkler systems?

Yes, but not on the same plot. Different plots on your farm can have different irrigation systems, each eligible for subsidy.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the Government of India. For official details, visit pmksy.gov.in or contact your District Agriculture Office.