PDMC Scheme Enhances Water Efficiency, Farmer Income

PDMC Scheme Enhances Water Efficiency, Farmer Income

Why in the News?

The Government has introduced greater flexibility under the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme, enabling States and UTs to implement localized water storage and micro-irrigation projects, aiming to boost water-use efficiency, agricultural productivity, and farmer incomes through improved irrigation infrastructure.

About PDMC Scheme:

  • Objective: Promote efficient water use and increase farmer income through targeted interventions, including support for minimum support price implementation.
  • Flexibility Added: States and Union Territories (UTs) can now plan micro-level water storage and conservation projects under Other Interventions (OI), incorporating sanrakshan (conservation) principles.
  • Local Adaptation: Projects tailored to regional requirements, ensuring relevance and effectiveness for farmers, including measures for crop diversification.
  • Farmer-Centric Design: Initiatives include both individual farmer systems and community water management structures.
  • Sustainability Focus: Supports long-term water availability for agricultural use and micro-irrigation projects.

Implementation and Impact:

  • State Empowerment: States and UTs are responsible for identifying suitable locations and designing water conservation interventions.
  • Micro-Level Planning: Activities include local water retention, soil moisture improvement, and irrigation systems.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Focus on long-term water management to mitigate drought and enhance yield through crop diversification.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation: Regular assessment to track water efficiency gains and income improvements.
  • National Goals Alignment: Supports the Government’s vision for increased farmer incomes and climate-resilient agriculture.
Key Initiatives under PDMC:
● Diggi Construction: Small-scale water storage structures to collect rainwater and runoff for irrigation.
● Water Harvesting Systems: Techniques for capturing and storing rainwater to improve soil moisture and crop yield.
● Micro-Irrigation Promotion: Encourages drip and sprinkler irrigation systems to optimize water use.
● Income Enhancement: Improved water efficiency aims to increase crop productivity and consequently farmer earnings, complementing minimum support price measures.
● Community Engagement: Ensures shared resources benefit farmer groups, promoting equitable water distribution and supporting crop diversification efforts.