Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-08-24

Background: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme has been providing crucial financial assistance to eligible farmer families across India since 2019. It aims to supplement farmers' income and meet their agricultural and domestic needs. Current Context: On August 24, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare launched the 'Kisan Samriddhi' phase of PM-KISAN. This new phase expands the eligibility criteria to include an additional 1.5 crore marginal farmers and introduces an advanced digital grievance redressal system for faster resolution of issues. Impact: This expansion is expected to significantly boost agricultural income, reduce rural distress, and promote digital literacy among a wider section of the farming community, aligning with the government's long-term vision of doubling farmers' income by 2028.

Background: India has consistently emphasized sustainable development and climate-resilient agriculture to address environmental challenges and ensure food security. The need for eco-friendly farming practices has grown significantly. Current Context: On August 24, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, inaugurated the National Green Agriculture Mission (NGAM). This mission will provide targeted subsidies and technical assistance for adopting organic farming, water-efficient irrigation techniques, and renewable energy solutions in agriculture across 10 pilot states. Impact: NGAM is projected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the agricultural sector, enhance soil health, conserve precious water resources, and improve farmers' resilience against adverse climate change impacts, thereby contributing to India's ambitious net-zero targets.