Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 today, introducing several new schemes aimed at boosting the agricultural sector and supporting farmers across the country. Here are the key highlights:
Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana
A major announcement in this year’s budget is the launch of the Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, designed to improve rural infrastructure, strengthen irrigation systems, and encourage sustainable farming practices. The Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana will focus on improving agricultural productivity in 100 districts with low output, benefiting 1.7 crore farmers in India. The minister also announced a National Mission for Edible Oils and Seeds to drive self-reliance in the sector, while a six-year mission will work towards achieving Aatmanirbharta in pulses. Over the next four years, central agencies will procure tur, urad, and masur pulses. A makhana board will be set up in Bihar to enhance processing and value addition in the state’s Makhana industry.
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Expansion
To support the growing agricultural requirements and provide greater financial flexibility to farmers, the government has increased the loan limit under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Launched in 1988, KCC aims to provide timely credit to farmers for their agricultural requirements.