Progress of the Per Drop More Crop Scheme
Key Points
The Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme has been pivotal in enhancing water use efficiency and boosting agricultural productivity. This matters for UPSC aspirants, especially for GS Paper 3, as it relates to agriculture and water resource management. Last Updated: 01-09-2026
Key Facts About Per Drop More Crop
- About PDMC: A Centrally Sponsored Scheme promoting micro-irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation to improve water efficiency and agricultural productivity.
- 2006: Initiated as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Micro Irrigation.
- 2010-11: Upgraded to the National Mission on Micro Irrigation (NMMI).
- 2014-15: Became part of the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) under the On-Farm Water Management (OFWM) component.
- 2015-16 to 2021-22: Implemented as PDMC under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
- 2022-23 onwards: Now implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY).
- Over ₹8,123.24 crore of central assistance allocated over the last three years.
- Successfully brought around 115 lakh hectares under micro-irrigation coverage.
India's Agricultural Water Efficiency
The PDMC scheme plays a crucial role in addressing India's water resource challenges, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. With agriculture consuming over 80% of India's water resources, the scheme's focus on micro-irrigation aligns with national goals of enhancing water use efficiency and ensuring food security. India's progress in micro-irrigation also positions it favorably in international comparisons of sustainable agricultural practices.
UPSC Relevance
This topic is relevant for GS Paper 3 under the sections of agriculture and water resource management. For the prelims, questions could focus on the scheme's objectives, financial assistance details, and coverage statistics. In the mains, essay topics could explore the impact of micro-irrigation on sustainable agriculture and water conservation strategies.
FAQ Section
- What is Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)? PDMC is a government scheme that encourages micro-irrigation technologies to increase water-use efficiency and agricultural productivity.
- Under which scheme is PDMC currently implemented? PDMC operates under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY).
- What are the two major micro-irrigation systems supported under PDMC? The primary systems are drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation.
- What subsidy is provided under PDMC? Small and marginal farmers receive 55% financial assistance, while other farmers receive 45%.
- What is fertigation? Fertigation is the technique of applying fertilizers via irrigation water directly to the plant's root zone.
Detailed Coverage
- PDMC Scheme: Promotes effective water use through micro-irrigation.
- Financial Assistance: Up to 55% support for small farmers.
- Micro-Irrigation Coverage: 115 lakh hectares covered.
- Leading States: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.
- Water Conservation: New initiatives for water storage and harvesting.
- Flexible Funding: States can exceed previous funding limits.
- Types of Systems: Drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
- Precision Water Management: Targeted irrigation for better productivity.
- Fertigation Support: Combines fertilizer application with irrigation.
- Focus on Water-Stressed Regions: Prioritizes sustainable management.
- Impact Assessment: Improved water efficiency and crop productivity.
- Income Improvements: Reported benefits for farmers.
- Resource Savings: Significant savings in water, energy, and labor.
- IIMA Study: Highlights groundwater benefits from micro-irrigation.
- Conclusion: Transition to efficient irrigation practices enhances farmer livelihoods.