India | Rajasthan Gets 'Water for Every Field' Phase II for Farmers
Senior Technology Correspondent · AI, startups & MeitY policy
Quick summary
The Union Agriculture Ministry has launched the second phase of its 'Har Khet Ko Pani' scheme in Rajasthan today. This aims to bring better irrigation directly to small and marginal farmers across the state.
Rajasthan's small and marginal farmers will soon get more help with water for their fields. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare officially started the second phase of its 'Har Khet Ko Pani' (Water for Every Field) scheme today in the state.
This scheme focuses on expanding micro-irrigation. Micro-irrigation is a smart way to water plants directly at their roots, using less water than traditional methods. It helps farmers use water more carefully and efficiently. The goal is to reach small and marginal farmers across Rajasthan.
More Support for Rural India
This step comes as India pushes for wider rural development. Just yesterday, Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Giriraj Singh, opened 50 new 'Gramin Haats' in Uttar Pradesh. Gramin Haats are special rural markets.
They give local farmers and artisans a better place to sell their goods. This helps them get fair prices for their crops and handmade items, benefiting thousands of people in villages.
In other news, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) also made an important announcement today. ICAR released 'Pusa Bold 26', a new type of lentil (dal).
This lentil can grow well even when there is little rain because it is drought-resistant. It also gives more yield, meaning farmers can grow 15-20% more lentils on average. This new variety will help farmers in dry areas and improve food security across India.
These efforts show a combined focus on helping farmers, making farming more sustainable, and boosting village economies. The new schemes address challenges like water scarcity and market access for farmers and rural workers.
Key Takeaways
- 'Har Khet Ko Pani' Phase II launched in Rajasthan, focusing on micro-irrigation.
- The scheme aims to improve water use for small and marginal farmers.
- Separately, 50 new 'Gramin Haats' opened in Uttar Pradesh for better market access.
- ICAR released 'Pusa Bold 26', a new drought-resistant lentil variety.
Quick questions
- What is 'Har Khet Ko Pani'?
- It's a government scheme bringing irrigation water to every farm field.
- Does the scheme cover all farmers?
- No — this second phase primarily targets small and marginal farmers in Rajasthan, focusing on better water usage.
- What are Gramin Haats?
- Rural markets provide local farmers and artisans direct venues to sell produce and crafts.
- What is 'Pusa Bold 26'?
- This new lentil variety from ICAR tolerates dry conditions and offers farmers higher yields.