The Government of India launched the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) in 2007 to boost agricultural growth and improve farmers’ income. This scheme plays a vital role in making farming more profitable, sustainable, and innovative across the country. It provides financial support to states and union territories for implementing region-specific projects that benefit farmers directly.
Objectives of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana focuses on the overall development of the agriculture sector. The key goals include:
Enhancing Farmers’ Income
The main aim is to help farmers earn more through better use of technology, modern farming practices, and efficient market linkages. By providing infrastructure support, the scheme helps reduce post-harvest losses and improve profitability.
Encouraging Agricultural Innovation
RKVY encourages each state to plan and execute its own projects based on local needs. These projects often include new crop varieties, advanced irrigation systems, and use of digital technology in farming.
Promoting Sustainable Farming
The scheme supports eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, organic farming, and soil health improvement. This ensures long-term productivity and helps farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions.
Strengthening Allied Sectors
Apart from traditional farming, RKVY also promotes growth in fisheries, horticulture, dairy, and animal husbandry. It aims to create multiple sources of income for rural households.
Key Features of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
Flexibility for States
One of the biggest strengths of this scheme is that it gives states the flexibility to design projects according to their regional priorities and agricultural challenges.
Central and State Funding
The financial sharing pattern of the scheme is 60:40 between the central and state governments. For northeastern and hilly states, the central government covers 90% of the cost, reducing the burden on state budgets.
Focus on Small and Marginal Farmers
The scheme is designed to benefit small and marginal farmers who often lack access to modern technology and credit facilities. It provides them with better resources and guidance to improve productivity.
Technology and Market Support
RKVY promotes the use of precision farming tools, post-harvest management techniques, and digital platforms to help farmers get better prices for their produce.
Eligibility and Beneficiaries
The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana benefits a wide range of individuals and organizations working in the agriculture sector.
Who Can Apply
- Small and marginal farmers
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Agribusiness startups
- State agriculture departments and universities
Eligible Activities
Projects under RKVY can include:
- Setting up cold storage and irrigation systems
- Building seed banks and soil testing labs
- Promoting organic and sustainable farming
- Establishing food processing and value addition units
How to Apply for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
Farmers and organizations can apply for RKVY through both offline and online methods.
Offline Application
Interested applicants can visit their nearest agriculture department office. They need to fill in the project proposal form, attach necessary documents such as land records, Aadhaar card, and bank details, and submit it for approval. After review, funds are released for the selected projects.
Online Application
Applicants can also apply online by visiting the official RKVY portal: https://rkvy.nic.in.
They need to register, upload project details, and track the status of their proposal directly from the website.
Contact Information
For assistance, applicants can contact their respective state agriculture department or reach out through:
📞 Helpline: +91 7014180458
📧 Email: ratanmetalsjaipur@gmail.com
Conclusion
The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana is one of India’s most important agricultural development schemes. It not only boosts productivity but also helps farmers adapt to modern practices and changing weather conditions. By encouraging innovation and supporting allied sectors, RKVY is making Indian agriculture more sustainable, profitable, and future-ready.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana?
The main purpose of RKVY is to promote holistic agricultural development, enhance farmers’ income, and support states in implementing region-specific projects.
Who is eligible for RKVY benefits?
Small and marginal farmers, FPOs, agribusiness startups, and government agricultural bodies are eligible to participate in the scheme.
How can farmers apply for RKVY?
Farmers can apply through the official website or by visiting their local agriculture department office with the required documents.
Is RKVY available in all states of India?
Yes, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana is implemented in all states and union territories across India, with funding support from both central and state governments.
Does RKVY cover allied activities like dairy and fisheries?
Yes, the scheme also supports allied sectors like dairy, fisheries, horticulture, and animal husbandry to ensure diversified income sources for farmers.