Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship national scheme introduced by the Government of India to address critical irrigation and water-use challenges in agriculture.
The program aims to expand the cultivated area under assured irrigation, reduce water wastage, and improve on-farm water-use efficiency.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
PMKSY was formulated by combining several ongoing programs, including the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), and On-Farm Water Management (OFWM).
The primary objective of the scheme is captured by two key national slogans:
1. "Har Khet Ko Pani" (Water for every field).
2. "Per Drop More Crop" (Focusing on micro-irrigation and water productivity).
The "Per Drop More Crop" component is managed by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare.
It promotes micro-irrigation technologies like drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
These technologies help farmers optimize water use, minimize evaporation and percolation losses, and increase overall crop yields per unit of water applied.
While water conservation is a broader outcome of these practices, "Per Drop More Crop" is the specific official mission and core operational component of the Krishi Sinchayee Yojana.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (C).