Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): A Step Towards Sustainable Organic Farming

India, with its rich agricultural heritage, has always emphasised sustainable farming practices. The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is a key government initiative to revitalise traditional agriculture through organic farming. Let’s delve into the scheme's importance, its benefits to farmers, and how it contributes to India's mission of eco-friendly farming.

Table of Contents

What is Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)?

Launched in 2015, PKVY is a sub-component of the National Mission of Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA). The scheme focuses on promoting organic farming through traditional practices, encouraging the use of bio-fertilizers, and reducing dependency on chemical inputs. It empowers farmers to adopt organic practices, improving the health of soil and the environment.

Objectives of PKVY

1. Promote Organic Farming: PKVY supports the adoption of organic farming in clusters, ensuring a systematic approach.
2. Increase Agricultural Productivity: Organic methods ensure sustainable yields while preserving soil fertility.
3. Boost Farmer Income: Organic produce often fetches a premium price in the market, boosting farmers' income.
4. Reduce Input Costs: The scheme encourages the use of natural inputs, reducing the cost of expensive chemical fertilizers.
5. Eco-Friendly Practices: It helps in reducing pollution and conserving biodiversity.

Key Features of the Scheme

1. Cluster-Based Approach: Farmers form clusters (50 acres each) to cultivate organic crops, allowing for better management and implementation.
2. Financial Support: Farmers receive financial assistance to cover the cost of inputs, training, certification, and marketing of organic products.
3. Training and Capacity Building: The scheme provides training in organic farming methods, certification processes, and sustainable agricultural techniques.
4. Certification of Organic Products: Organic certification ensures that products meet global standards, facilitating export opportunities.

Benefits of PKVY for Farmers

• Improved Soil Health: Organic farming enhances soil structure and fertility, leading to long-term agricultural sustainability.
• Market Linkage: PKVY facilitates access to domestic and international organic markets, providing better price realization for farmers.
• Health Benefits: Organic farming reduces the exposure to harmful chemicals, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Challenges in Implementation

Despite its many advantages, PKVY faces several challenges:

• Awareness and Training: Many farmers lack awareness about organic farming and the long-term benefits of PKVY.
• Market Access: Although there is demand for organic products, market access, especially for small and marginal farmers, remains limited.
• Certification Process: The organic certification process can be complex and time-consuming, making it difficult for some farmers to complete.

Conclusion

The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is a significant step towards reviving India's agricultural legacy through sustainable practices. Promoting organic farming, not only enhances farmers' income but also ensures environmental sustainability. With the growing demand for organic products, PKVY could play a crucial role in making India a global leader in organic agriculture.

To learn more about government initiatives, visit the official page of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

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