Evaluating the interventions made under Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) for the beneficiaries of Nadia district in West Bengal

Introduction

Rastriya Krishi Vikash Yojana (RKVY) was initiated in 2007. As an umbrella scheme for holistic development of agriculture and allied sectors by allowing states to choose their own agriculture and allied sector development activity as per the district/state agriculture plan. The scheme has come a long way since its inception and has been implemented across two plan periods (11 th and 12 th plan). During the 11th plan an amount of rupees 22408.76 crore was released to states and 5768 projects were implemented. In the 12 th plan 31488.44 crore was released and over 7600 projects were implemented in the sector of crop development, horticulture, agricultural mechanization, natural resource management, marketing, post-harvest management, animal husbandry, dairy, fisheries, extension etc. Till 2013 -14 the scheme was implemented as an additional central assistant to state plan schemes with 100% central assistance. It is converted into a centralised sponsored scheme in 2014-15 also with 100% central assistance since 2015-16 the funding pattern in of the scheme has been altered in the ratio of 60:40 between central and state (90:10 for Northeastern States and Himalayan States). For union territories the funding pattern is 100% central grant. The Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) aims to achieve and sustain the targeted annual growth in the agriculture and allied sectors during the 12th Plan period by promoting comprehensive and integrated development. The key objectives of the scheme include:  Encouraging state governments to enhance public investment in agriculture and allied activities.  Granting greater flexibility and autonomy to states in planning and implementing agricultural initiatives. The study aimed to examine the interventions carried out under the Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) in Nadia district. It began by outlining the program's objectives, structure, and framework, emphasizing its key goals, target beneficiaries, and financial provisions. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating surveys, interviews, and field observations for data collection. The research evaluated stakeholder involvement, resource utilization, and project execution. While agricultural projects were largely successful, infrastructure initiatives faced delays due to bureaucratic hurdles and resource constraints. Despite positive impacts on productivity and income, challenges such as limited awareness and administrative inefficiencies persisted. The evaluation revealed that while most interventions were implemented as planned, agricultural projects had higher completion rates compared to infrastructure-related initiatives, which faced delays. However, challenges such as limited awareness, resource constraints, and administrative were identified. To address these issues, the study recommended targeted awareness campaigns, investments in capacitybuilding, and more efficient bureaucratic processes to ensure timely project execution and maximize benefits for farmers. These findings provided valuable insights into the effectiveness and challenges of RKVY interventions in the district.

Research Methodology

The study was conducted in Nadia district of West Bengal comprising 3 blocks, 6-gram panchayats, 12 villages in the study area. This was conducted in West Bengal, a state where agriculture plays a crucial role in both employment and economic contribution. With its varied agro-climatic conditions, nutrient-rich soil, and ample water supply from major rivers such as the Ganges, Hooghly, and Damodar, the region is well-suited for cultivating a diverse range of crops. Out of 23 districts of West Bengal, Nadia districts was purposely selected. Total of three blocks were randomly selected for the study. There are 18 blocks in the Nadia district out of which Kalyani, Haringhata, and Chakdaha were randomly selected. Total six-gram panchayats were selected randomly for the study. From the above table 4.1.5, it is enfolding that serial no 6 delineating the statement "horticulture development" which is suitable to study area i.e., Nadia district is great extent in this intervention by the farmers respondents ranked in No.1 position. Horticulture development ranked highest in Nadia district due to a combination of favourable agro-climatic conditions, high-value crops that boost income, and strong market demand for fresh produce. The focus on fruits, vegetables, flowers, and spices allows farmers to diversify their income and reduce risk compared to traditional crops. Skill development programs, especially in nursery management, grafting, and post-harvest techniques, have improved productivity and reduced wastage. Government support, including financial aid and extension services, has further facilitated the adoption of horticultural practices. Additionally, the labour-intensive nature of horticulture creates employment opportunities, making it particularly attractive for small farmers. Its resource efficiency and adaptability to local conditions ensure its long-term sustainability, securing its top rank among agricultural interventions in the district. Similarly, the second positions are occupied by the statement "market infrastructure and linkages". Market Infrastructure and Linkages ranked second in Nadia district due to its significant impact on farmers' access to larger markets and better prices for their produce. The development of market yards and the widespread use of wholesale markets have provided farmers with direct channels to sell their crops, reducing dependency on middlemen and improving income through fair pricing.

Additionally, the promotion of digital platforms for market information has been a major success, with 98.3% of farmers utilizing these platforms to stay informed about market trends, prices, and demand. This access to timely market information empowers farmers to make better decisions, ensuring they sell their produce at the best possible price and increasing their overall profitability. The intervention's high adoption rate and its clear benefits in improving market access and income security explain why it ranked second in the district.

Conclusion

The implementation of RKVY in Nadia district has led to significant improvements in agricultural productivity. www.extensionjournal.com

Through the provision of modern farming techniques, quality seeds, and irrigation facilities, farmers have experienced increased crop yields, which have positively affected their income levels. RKVY has encouraged farmers to diversify their crops and engage in allied activities such as livestock rearing, poultry farming, and aquaculture. This diversification has reduced dependence on a single crop and provided additional sources of income, contributing to overall economic stability. Training programs and workshops organized under RKVY have empowered farmers with knowledge and skills related to sustainable farming practices, pest management, and marketing strategies. This empowerment has enhanced their confidence and decision-making abilities, leading to better farm management. The scheme has facilitated the development of essential infrastructure, such as roads, storage facilities, and market access. Improved infrastructure has not only reduced post-harvest losses but has also enhanced market connectivity, allowing farmers to fetch better prices for their produce. By providing targeted support and resources, the program has contributed to reducing socio-economic disparities in the district. The initiative has improved access to credit and financial services for farmers, enabling them to invest in their farms. This access to finance has been crucial in promoting entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency among beneficiaries. RKVY has emphasized sustainable farming practices, leading to greater awareness of environmental issues among farmers. This shift towards sustainable agriculture has longterm benefits for the ecological balance in the region.

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