Agricultural Mechanisation Scheme: Supports 21.6 Lakh Farmers
A central government scheme has significantly boosted agricultural mechanisation, providing machinery to over 21.6 lakh farmers across India.
Source: GNews PM SchemeThe Central Sector Scheme on Agricultural Mechanisation has provided support to more than 21.6 lakh farmers since its launch. This initiative aims to increase the use of modern farm machinery, which helps improve efficiency and productivity in agriculture. The scheme offers financial assistance for purchasing various agricultural machines, making them more accessible to farmers. It also promotes custom hiring centres, where farmers can rent machinery, reducing their individual investment costs. This widespread mechanisation is crucial for modernising India's agricultural sector and addressing labour shortages. The scheme has played a vital role in empowering farmers with advanced tools and technologies.
This news is important for competitive exams, especially for topics related to Government Schemes, Agriculture, and Rural Development under UPSC GS Paper III and SSC General Awareness. Aspirants should understand the scheme's objectives, beneficiaries, and impact on agricultural productivity and farmer income. It highlights the government's efforts to modernise farming practices and achieve food security.
- Over 21.6 lakh farmers have received support under the Central Sector Scheme on Agricultural Mechanisation.
- The scheme aims to increase the adoption of modern farm machinery.
- Financial assistance is provided for purchasing agricultural machines.
- The scheme promotes Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) for machinery rental.
- It contributes to improving agricultural efficiency and productivity.
- The initiative is a Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Union Government.
Agricultural mechanisation refers to the use of machinery and equipment in farming operations to replace manual labour and animal power. This includes tractors, tillers, harvesters, seed drills, and irrigation pumps. It aims to increase efficiency, reduce drudgery, save time, and improve the quality and quantity of agricultural output.
Custom Hiring Centres are facilities where farmers can rent agricultural machinery and equipment for a fee. These centres are particularly beneficial for small and marginal farmers who cannot afford to purchase expensive machinery. CHCs help in optimising the use of farm equipment and making modern technology accessible to a wider farming community.
A Central Sector Scheme is a scheme that is fully funded by the Central Government and implemented by the Central Government machinery. These schemes are typically formulated on subjects from the Union List and are designed to address national priorities or specific issues across the country. Examples include schemes for defence, railways, and certain social welfare programs.
UPSC often asks about the objectives, features, and impact of government schemes related to agriculture (GS Paper III). SSC exams may focus on the number of beneficiaries or the scheme's name and its primary goal.
Think 'Mech-A-Nise' for 'Mechanisation': Machines Aid National Income, Supporting Everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the Central Sector Scheme on Agricultural Mechanisation?
The main objective of the Central Sector Scheme on Agricultural Mechanisation is to promote the use of modern farm machinery among farmers. This helps in increasing agricultural productivity, reducing labour costs, and improving the overall efficiency of farming operations across India.
How does the agricultural mechanisation scheme benefit small and marginal farmers?
The agricultural mechanisation scheme benefits small and marginal farmers by providing financial assistance for purchasing machinery and promoting Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs). CHCs allow farmers to rent expensive equipment, making modern technology accessible without the need for large capital investment, thus improving their farming practices.
What types of agricultural machinery are supported under this scheme?
The scheme supports a wide range of agricultural machinery, including tractors, power tillers, rotavators, seed drills, planters, threshers, and various harvesting equipment. The specific machinery eligible for subsidy may vary based on regional needs and government guidelines, aiming to cover essential farming operations.