Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) has become a key driver of organic farming in India by 2025. Launched in 2015, it promotes sustainable agriculture through cluster-based organic farming. The scheme supports farmers with training, certification, and market access, helping reduce chemical input use and improve soil health. PKVY’s decade-long journey reflects India’s commitment to eco-friendly farming and rural prosperity.

Cluster-Based Organic Farming Model

PKVY organises farmers into clusters of 20 hectares. This collective approach standardises organic practices and lowers costs through shared resources. Thousands of clusters exist nationwide, enabling farmers to adopt natural soil enhancers and diversified crops. Training is central, building farmer skills and confidence to transition from chemical farming.

Objectives and Benefits

The scheme aims to promote eco-friendly farming that boosts soil health and conserves resources. It reduces farmers’ dependency on chemicals, lowers input costs, and increases incomes. PKVY ensures production of chemical-free food and supports farmer collectives in processing and marketing. Financial assistance of ₹31,500 per hectare over three years covers inputs, certification, branding, and training.

Implementation and Financial Support

Farmers with up to two hectares can apply. Regional Councils guide enrolment and certification. Annual Action Plans are approved by the Ministry of Agriculture. Funds flow from the Central to State Governments, then to Regional Councils, and finally to farmers via Direct Benefit Transfer. This ensures transparency and timely support.

Organic Certification Systems

PKVY uses two certification models – 1. Third-Party Certification (NPOP) for international compliance and export markets. 2. Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India) for community-based, affordable certification aimed at domestic markets. The Large Area Certification (LAC) programme fast-tracks certification in chemical-free zones, reducing the conversion period .

Achievements and Scale

By early 2025, PKVY has supported over 25 lakh farmers across 15 lakh hectares. More than 52,000 clusters have formed. Large Area Certification has expanded in tribal and eco-sensitive regions including Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Sikkim stands as the world’s first 100% organic state under this scheme. The digital Jaivik Kheti Portal connects farmers, suppliers, and buyers, enhancing market access.

Digital and Market Linkages

The Jaivik Kheti Portal promotes direct sales of organic produce. It registers farmers, input suppliers, and buyers to build a transparent organic market ecosystem. This digital platform supports farmer entrepreneurship and helps capture price premiums domestically and internationally.