Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF)
The Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) was launched in 2018 and is managed by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development). It aims to support the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) by offering financial assistance to states to expand the adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation technologies.
Ministry
Ministry of Agriculture
Scheme Details
Overview
The Micro Irrigation Fund (MIF) was launched in 2018 and is managed by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development). It aims to support the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) by offering financial assistance to states to expand the adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation technologies.
Benefits
- Increased water-use efficiency in agriculture.
- Promotion of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems for higher yield and resource conservation.
- Long-term interest subvention loans provided to states for infrastructure development.
- Improved crop productivity with reduced water and energy usage.
- Lower input costs and better resilience to drought and erratic rainfall.
Eligibility Criteria
- State governments and union territories implementing micro-irrigation projects.
- Farmers (especially small and marginal) benefiting indirectly through state-led infrastructure.
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), NGOs, and Water User Associations involved in irrigation implementation.
Application Process
Steps to Apply:
- State governments prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and submit them to NABARD.
- NABARD appraises the projects and releases funds for approved projects.
- Farmers can participate through schemes like Per Drop More Crop under PMKSY at local level.
- Eligible farmers receive subsidies or support through their state's agricultural department.
Application Modes:
- States apply through official NABARD channels.
- Farmers apply through their local Agriculture or Irrigation Department offices under PMKSY schemes.
Required Documents
- For States: Project proposal, DPR, financial details, implementation plan.
- For Farmers (under PDMC): Aadhaar card, land documents, bank account details, irrigation plan layout, photographs.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of the Micro Irrigation Fund?
The initial corpus of MIF is ₹5,000 crore to be disbursed in phases to states based on project submissions.
Can individual farmers apply directly for MIF?
No, MIF is routed through state governments. However, farmers can avail benefits through state-run micro-irrigation programs.
Is subsidy available under MIF?
Yes, states offer subsidy to farmers for micro-irrigation under PDMC, indirectly supported by MIF funding.
Example Case
Example: Drip Irrigation in Maharashtra
Under the MIF-backed project, the Maharashtra government implemented drip irrigation in drought-prone areas like Marathwada. Farmers reported 30–40% savings in water and increased productivity in sugarcane and cotton cultivation.
Important Notes
- MIF supports the broader goal of 'Per Drop More Crop' under PMKSY.
- Focus is on sustainable water management and climate-resilient agriculture.
- Special priority is given to water-stressed districts.
Last Updated
Last Updated: 2025-07-27