Government Schemes

PMKSY โ€” 90% Drip/Sprinkler Irrigation Subsidy

PMKSY gives 55-90% subsidy on drip irrigation and sprinkler systems for farmers. Apply via state agriculture department. Reduce water use by 40-50% and...

CitizenNest Editorial Team5 min read
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Disclaimer: This is an independent informational guide. We are NOT affiliated with any government body. Always verify on official websites.

What is PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana?

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is the Government of India's comprehensive irrigation scheme operating under the motto "Har Khet Ko Pani, More Crop Per Drop" (Water to Every Field, More Crop Per Drop).

The scheme has three components:

  • Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) โ€” completing pending irrigation projects
  • Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP) โ€” extending water to every farmland
  • Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) โ€” micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) at farm level

Most farmers apply under PDMC for the drip/sprinkler subsidy.

PDMC โ€” Micro-Irrigation Subsidy Details

Farmer Category Drip/Sprinkler Subsidy
Small and marginal farmers (โ‰ค2 ha) 55% subsidy (Central 45% + State 10%)
Other farmers (>2 ha) 45% subsidy (Central 35% + State 10%)
States may add additional subsidy Some states up to 75โ€“90%

States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka offer higher subsidies โ€” in some cases up to 90% for small farmers including state's own contribution.

Benefits of Drip/Sprinkler Irrigation

Benefit Impact
Water saving 40โ€“50% less water used
Yield increase 20โ€“40% higher crop yields
Fertiliser efficiency Fertigation (applying fertiliser via drip) reduces wastage
Labour saving Less labour for irrigation
Electricity saving Less pump hours needed

Who is Eligible?

  • All farmers with cultivable land โ€” no income limit
  • Both small (โ‰ค2 ha) and large farmers (small farmers get higher subsidy)
  • Farmers with assured water source (borewell, canal, pond, river)
  • Scheme works on a first-come, first-served basis โ€” apply early as annual budgets are limited

How to Apply โ€” Step by Step

The application process is state-wise through the state agriculture department:

General Process:

  1. Visit your state agriculture department portal or office:

  2. Register and apply for Micro Irrigation Subsidy (PMKSY-PDMC)

  3. Enter land details, water source type, crop details

  4. Select an empanelled vendor from the state's approved list

  5. Approval is granted based on budget availability

  6. Vendor installs the drip/sprinkler system

  7. Inspection by agriculture department officer

  8. Subsidy credited to your bank account via DBT (after installation verification)

Documents Required

  1. Aadhaar card
  2. Land records โ€” Khasra-Khatauni / 7/12 extract (land ownership proof)
  3. Water source proof โ€” borewell completion certificate, canal allotment letter, or any proof of water availability
  4. Bank account passbook (Aadhaar-linked for DBT)
  5. Farmer registration (many states require pre-registration on PM-KISAN or Kisan ID)

System Types Covered

System Type Crops Water Saving
Drip irrigation Vegetables, fruits, sugarcane, cotton, pulses 50โ€“70%
Mini sprinkler Vegetables, groundnut, onion, spices 30โ€“50%
Micro sprinkler Orchards, plantations 40โ€“60%
Rain gun / Sprinkler Paddy, wheat, maize 30โ€“40%

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the subsidy for the purchase of drip equipment or for installation?

The subsidy covers both equipment and installation costs โ€” the total system cost including pipes, drippers, connectors, filter, pump connection, and labour. Only approved vendors are eligible.

Can I buy the drip system first and then claim subsidy?

In some states, you need prior approval before installation. Buying without approval and then claiming may not be eligible. Always get approval first.

My land is leased (rented). Can I apply?

Most states require you to be the land owner for subsidy. Some states allow long-term lease holders (5+ years) with a no-objection from the landowner. Check your state's rules.

What is the minimum land area required?

There is usually a minimum area requirement โ€” commonly 0.2 hectares (2000 sq m / 20 guntha). Smaller plots may not be eligible. Check your state's minimum threshold.

Is PMKSY applicable for greenhouse/polyhouse?

Yes โ€” protected cultivation (greenhouse, polyhouse, net house) is covered under PMKSY, often with higher subsidy rates.

  • Central scheme info: pmksy.gov.in
  • Ministry of Agriculture: agricoop.nic.in
  • Apply: Your state agriculture department portal (links above)
  • Helpline: Your state agriculture department's micro irrigation cell

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