Maharashtra to implement PM Dhan-Dhaanya Yojana and Pulses Self-Reliance Mission after Centre’s approval
Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government has cleared the implementation of the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission, aiming to boost productivity, storage capacity and reduce dependence on imports.
Mumbai, November 28, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has approved the rollout of two major agriculture-related schemes — the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission — marking a significant shift in how the state plans to address low productivity and growing dependence on imported pulses. The decision follows the Centre’s approval of both schemes, which are designed to strengthen the agricultural ecosystem through better infrastructure, improved seed availability and targeted financial support.
Under the PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, the focus will be on districts with historically low agricultural output. These districts will receive support in irrigation expansion, crop diversification, storage enhancement and access to institutional credit. The scheme includes multiple components handled by various departments, aimed at modernising farming practices and building long-term resilience. For small and marginal farmers, improved access to inputs and infrastructure could help stabilise production and income.
Alongside this, the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission is being seen as a crucial step toward reducing India’s reliance on imported pulses. Maharashtra is among the states expected to benefit from the distribution of high-quality certified seeds and free mini seed kits. The wider national target is to expand pulses farming from 27.5 million hectares to around 31 million by 2030 and increase production from 24 million tonnes to 35 million tonnes. Higher productivity will play a key role, and the mission emphasises adopting better seed varieties and farming technology.
One important part of the scheme is the establishment of pulse-processing units across producing regions. Each approved unit will receive financial support to encourage domestic value addition, reduce wastage and improve market availability. Officials believe this will create local employment opportunities and help farmers secure better returns by linking them to processors and markets more efficiently.
For Maharashtra, the timing of these schemes is significant. Districts selected under the new programme have faced challenges such as unstable rainfall, limited irrigation and insufficient storage facilities. By combining improved inputs with better infrastructure, the government hopes to raise crop yields and reduce losses caused by poor post-harvest management. The mission is also expected to strengthen the procurement system so farmers can access Minimum Support Price operations more smoothly.
State officials say coordination between departments will be critical, as both schemes involve multiple agencies working together on irrigation, seed distribution, extension services, processing and marketing. They also expect that better planning and monitoring will be essential to ensure that benefits reach farmers in the targeted regions, especially in parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha that struggle with lower productivity.
As the rollout begins, agriculture experts are cautiously optimistic. Many believe that if implemented effectively, the initiatives could bring long-term structural improvements to Maharashtra’s farming landscape. Reduced dependence on imported pulses would not only enhance food security but also protect farmers from fluctuations in international prices. The increased focus on infrastructure and productivity may help stabilise rural incomes and encourage more sustainable farming practices.
Government officials are preparing detailed execution plans, and changes in seed supply chains, storage facilities and procurement mechanisms are expected to start taking shape over the coming months. Once the programmes expand fully across districts, Maharashtra may see measurable improvements in farm output and rural economic stability.
