The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) stands as a cornerstone initiative in the Indian government’s efforts to transform the agricultural landscape. Launched in 2016, this ambitious scheme aims to address a critical challenge plaguing the sector: post-harvest losses. By equipping farmers with the tools and infrastructure necessary to minimize waste and maximize value realization, PMKSY seeks to empower agricultural communities and contribute significantly to their financial well-being.
The scheme’s commitment is reflected in its financial allocations. Over the 14th and 15th Finance Commission cycles, a combined ₹10,600 crores has been dedicated to PMKSY, demonstrating the government’s recognition of the agricultural sector’s potential and the pivotal role of post-harvest management in unlocking its true value.
A key driver within PMKSY is the Operation Greens (OG) scheme, launched in 2018-19. Initially focusing on three high-impact crops – tomato, onion, and potato (TOP) – OG has since expanded its reach to encompass a wider range of 22 perishable crops. These include fruits like mango, banana, and apple, vegetables like green peas, cauliflower, and okra, and spices like ginger and garlic. This broadened scope reflects the scheme’s adaptability and its commitment to addressing the diverse needs of different agricultural sectors.
OG’s impact extends beyond simply identifying targeted crops. By providing grants-in-aid for infrastructure development, processing units, and market access initiatives, the scheme empowers local communities to create sustainable solutions tailored to their specific needs. As of February 1, 2024, 47 projects across India have been approved under OG, with a total project cost of ₹2,094.20 crores attracting grant support of ₹503.72 crores. These investments act as catalysts for innovation, fostering the adoption of improved storage facilities, efficient processing techniques, and robust market linkages, all of which contribute to reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing value realization for farmers.
The benefits of PMKSY extend far beyond immediate financial gains for farmers. By addressing post-harvest losses, the scheme contributes to increased food security for the nation, ensuring wider availability of essential food items. Furthermore, the focus on infrastructure development and market access creates job opportunities within the food processing sector, diversifying rural economies and fostering overall growth.
