The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare is implementing the Rainfed Area Development (RAD) programme under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). The initiative promotes sustainable and profitable farming through the Integrated Farming System (IFS) model developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
RAD, farmers are encouraged to adopt a diversified farming approach by integrating crops with activities such as horticulture, livestock rearing, fisheries, agroforestry, and beekeeping.
This mixed farming system aims to provide farmers with multiple income streams, enhancing livelihood security and reducing the impact of extreme weather events. By not depending on a single crop, farmers can protect their earnings even during climate-related disruptions.
According to an evaluation conducted by NITI Aayog in 2025, RAD interventions have shown significant positive results when aligned with local agro-climatic conditions.
The study highlights improved livelihood security in vulnerable regions and a notable rise in farmers’ ability to adapt in drought-prone areas. The programme has strengthened soil-moisture conservation practices, encouraged diversified cropping systems, and promoted landscape-based agricultural methods—enhancing the overall resilience against climate risks.
Since its inception, RAD has been implemented as part of the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) from 2014–15 and later integrated into PM-RKVY from 2022–23.
So far, the central government has released ₹2,119.84 crore to states to support the adoption of the IFS model. As a result, 14.35 lakh farmers across 8.50 lakh hectares have directly benefited.
Farmers adopting the IFS model under RAD receive ₹10,000 per cluster as financial assistance.
Additionally, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) conduct demonstrations and training tailored to regional requirements. In 2024–25 alone, KVKs organized 4,416 demonstrations and trained 96,013 farmers, strengthening their technical capabilities and field-level skills.
₹343.86 Crore Allocated for 2025–26: For the upcoming year 2025–26, the central government has allocated ₹343.86 crore to states and union territories for effective programme implementation and capacity building of farmers. This support aims to ensure smoother operations and wider adoption of the IFS model in rainfed regions.
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