Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Commends Maharashtra’s Timely Fund Utilisation, Calls for Faster Progress in Digital Agriculture and Horticulture Initiatives

The Government of Maharashtra has become the first state in India to qualify for the second installment under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) after successfully utilising more than 75% of the funds released under the scheme. The announcement came during a virtual review meeting chaired by Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who praised the state’s efficient implementation of agricultural development programmes.

The Centre is now processing the release of the second installment of ₹335 crore, following Maharashtra’s utilisation of approximately ₹260 crore from the initial allocation of ₹335 crore.

Key Highlights

• Maharashtra becomes the first state eligible for the second RKVY installment.
• State utilised over 75% of the first ₹335 crore allocation.
• Centre initiates release of the second installment of ₹335 crore.
• Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan applauds Maharashtra’s timely fund utilisation.
• Review highlights good progress under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Faster implementation sought for Digital Agriculture, National Horticulture Mission (NHM), Seeds, Oilseeds and Agroforestry.
• Government reiterates transparency measures under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
• Maharashtra recognised for rapid Farmer ID generation and swift flood compensation disbursal.

Maharashtra Sets Benchmark in RKVY Implementation

During the review meeting, the Union Minister noted that Maharashtra had utilised approximately ₹260 crore from the first installment of ₹335 crore, exceeding the mandatory 75% utilisation benchmark required to receive the next tranche of funding.

Calling the achievement significant, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Maharashtra’s performance reflects strong administrative commitment towards agricultural development and effective utilisation of public funds.

He also emphasised that timely expenditure must always be supported by continuous monitoring to ensure funds are used for their intended objectives.

Focus on Digital Agriculture and Horticulture

While appreciating Maharashtra’s progress under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), the Minister urged the state to accelerate implementation across several priority areas, including:

• Digital Agriculture
• Agriculture Extension
• National Horticulture Mission (NHM)
• Seed development
• Oilseed promotion
• Agroforestry

He also advised officials to expedite settlement of pending liabilities under the Seeds component to improve fund utilisation.

Crop Insurance Transparency Emphasised

The meeting also reviewed implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).

The Minister stressed the importance of accurate information while applying for crop insurance, clarifying that:

• Both Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and non-KCC farmers remain eligible.
• Farmers should correctly disclose their KCC status.
• The proposed declaration mechanism is intended to improve transparency rather than restrict benefits.

He also reiterated that the government’s interest subvention and repayment incentives under the Kisan Credit Card Scheme make accurate disclosure essential for efficient use of public resources.

Recognition for Farmer-Centric Initiatives

The Union Minister also appreciated Maharashtra for:

• Strong progress in generating Farmer IDs.
• Rapid disbursal of nearly ₹14,000 crore in flood compensation directly to farmers’ bank accounts within five days.

These initiatives were highlighted as examples of efficient implementation and responsive agricultural governance.

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Impact

Although primarily an agriculture-focused development, effective implementation of RKVY has indirect benefits for India’s hospitality, food and tourism sectors.

Stronger Farm-to-Hospitality Supply Chains

Improved agricultural productivity and horticulture infrastructure help ensure a more reliable supply of fresh fruits, vegetables and agricultural produce for hotels, restaurants, resorts and catering businesses.

Growth in Culinary Tourism

Enhanced support for horticulture, oilseeds and agroforestry can encourage regional food production, enabling destinations to promote local cuisines and farm-based culinary experiences.

Boost for Rural Tourism

Improved agricultural infrastructure and farmer incomes create opportunities for agri-tourism, farm stays and rural tourism initiatives that are increasingly attracting domestic and international visitors.

Food Processing Linkages

Higher agricultural productivity complements food processing initiatives such as PMKSY and PMFME, strengthening the supply chain for India’s HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants and Catering) industry.

Why It Matters

Maharashtra becoming the first state to qualify for the second installment under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana demonstrates the importance of timely fund utilisation and effective implementation of agricultural programmes. As the government continues to promote digital agriculture, horticulture and crop insurance reforms, these initiatives are expected to strengthen India’s agricultural ecosystem while supporting downstream sectors such as food processing, hospitality and tourism.

For the hospitality industry, stronger agricultural infrastructure translates into better-quality produce, improved supply chain resilience and greater opportunities to showcase regional cuisines as part of India’s growing culinary and rural tourism offerings.