Question

Nodal agency of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana is

• A. Central Government
• B. Horticulture Department
• C. State Agriculture Department
• D. Prime Minister

Hint:

In Indian agricultural schemes, while the Central Government provides policy and funding, the State Agriculture Department typically serves as the primary ground-level nodal agency responsible for actual execution and monitoring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship national program launched by the Government of India.
Its primary objectives are to improve on-farm water use efficiency ("More crop per drop"), expand the cultivated area under assured irrigation, and promote sustainable water conservation practices.
The scheme uses a decentralized implementation model to ensure projects are tailored to local needs.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
At the state level, the implementation and coordination of PMKSY are managed by a designated nodal agency.
The State Agriculture Department (C) serves as this nodal agency.
Key features of this decentralized implementation model include:
- The State Agriculture Department coordinates with other related departments (such as Water Resources, Land Resources, and Horticulture) to draft the District Irrigation Plans (DIP) and State Irrigation Plans (SIP).
- It acts as the single window for releasing funds, monitoring progress, and evaluating project outcomes.
- A State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC), chaired by the Chief Secretary of the respective state, oversees the entire program, with the Agriculture Department serving as the primary coordinating body.
Therefore, the State Agriculture Department is the designated nodal agency.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The designated nodal agency for implementing the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana at the state level is the State Agriculture Department.
Hence, the correct option is (C).