Marlin Priya
Expert
Published on: Sep 17, 2026
Krishi Bhagya Scheme
The Government of Karnataka launched the Krishi Bhagya Scheme, aiming specifically at assisting dry-land farmers who depend heavily on annual rainfall for their agricultural activities. With more than 70% of Karnataka's agricultural land being rain-fed, these farmers face significant challenges during periods of unpredictable rainfall. To support sustainable agriculture through reliable irrigation, the Krishi Bhagya Scheme was introduced. This initiative includes effective rainwater conservation strategies to boost agricultural productivity. The government has supported over one lakh farmers across rain-fed areas in 131 taluks within 25 districts, providing financial backing of ₹968.37 crores.
Objectives of Krishi Bhagya Scheme
The scheme's primary objectives are to transform Karnataka’s agricultural sector by enhancing farmer income security through on-farm rainwater conservation practices. Additionally, it encourages the adoption of modern agricultural technologies for improved water use efficiency.
Features of Krishi Bhagya Scheme
The scheme operates in five agro-climatic zones that receive an annual average rainfall of between 450 mm and 850 mm. It is implemented on 45 thousand hectares each year, benefiting over one lakh farmers annually.
Farmers receive grants to build farm ponds, known as Krishi Honda, for rainwater conservation and purchase lift pumps and diesel motors to manage water scarcity during deficient rainfall periods. The scheme incorporates advanced technologies aimed at achieving higher crop yields per water unit. Furthermore, the program assists farmers in increasing incomes by providing support to construct polyhouses and install shadenets, which enable the cultivation of hybrid vegetables and flower crops.
Constructing Krishi Honda
A central component of the Krishi Bhagya Scheme, the Krishi Honda is a farm pond designed to store rainwater, enabling irrigation of up to five acres during dry spells. Financial provisions are available for acquiring materials like polythene tarpaulin and fencing necessary for constructing the Krishi Honda, which costs approximately Rs.1.75 Lakhs. The government offers subsidies up to 90% for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and 80% for other farmers.
Extension of the Scheme
Initially limited to rain-fed agricultural regions, the scheme has now been extended to include the coastal and Malnad districts of Karnataka.
Eligibility Criteria
- According to the Department of Agriculture in Dakshina Kannada, farmers possessing at least 1-acre land are eligible to benefit from the scheme's offerings.
- Farmers who have previously received subsidies for pump sets and drip irrigation systems in the past three years are not eligible for further funding in those areas. However, they remain eligible for funds specifically designated for farm ponds.
Applying for Krishi Bhagya Scheme
Interested farmers are encouraged to engage with the scheme by contacting local agricultural departments, 'raita samparka kendras,' or district-level agricultural offices in their specific taluka or district in Karnataka.
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