NEW DELHI, 1 FEB

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced six new schemes and increased the subsidised Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan limit to Rs 5 lakh from Rs 3 lakh, targeting everything from unemployment to crop productivity enhancement across the country.

Sitharaman unveiled the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, a flagship programme targeting 100 agri-districts grappling with low productivity, moderate crop intensity and below-average credit parameters.

The scheme, to be implemented in partnership with state governments, is expected to benefit 1.7 crore farmers through enhanced agricultural productivity, crop diversification and improved post-harvest infrastructure.

The FM announced a significant enhancement in KCC benefits, raising the subsidised short-term loan limit from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh for 7.7 crore farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers.

To address rural unemployment, the government will implement a comprehensive 'Rural Prosperity and Resilience' programme. The programme will focus specifically on rural women, young farmers, rural youth, marginal and small farmers, and landless families.