Karnataka Krishi Bhagya Scheme: Farm Pond Subsidy & Apply

Introduction of Karnataka Krishi Bhagya Scheme: A Brief Insight

More than 70% of Karnataka’s farmland depends on rainfall. When the monsoon arrives late or rain stops during the growing season, crops can dry up and farmers may lose an entire season’s hard work. The Krishi Bhagya Scheme (Krishi Bhagya Yojane) helps farmers collect and store rainwater so they can use it when their crops need water.

The Government of Karnataka launched the scheme in 2014 to support farmers in rain-fed and dry areas of the State. Initially, it covered rain-fed areas in 131 taluks across 25 districts. The Government later extended it to coastal and Malnad districts.

The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, implements the scheme. Farmers can submit their applications through the Raita Samparka Kendra in their hobli, while the Assistant Director of Agriculture at the taluk level provides further guidance.

The scheme aims to make rain-fed farming more secure and productive. It encourages farmers to collect rainwater where it falls, store it and use it to irrigate crops during critical growth stages. It also promotes the efficient use of available water.

Under the scheme, eligible farmers receive a subsidy to construct a farm pond, locally known as a Krishi Honda, on their agricultural land. A farm pond can support irrigation on approximately 5 acres during dry periods. The Department has previously mentioned an estimated cost of around ₹1.75 lakh for a pond with polythene lining and protective fencing.

The Government provides an 80% subsidy to general category farmers and up to 90% to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe farmers for eligible farm pond construction. Farmers can also receive financial assistance for a diesel pump set to lift water from the pond and use it for irrigation.

The scheme also provides a 90% subsidy on eligible sprinkler and drip irrigation systems to farmers belonging to all categories. Farmers who want to grow hybrid vegetables or flowers can also explore assistance for setting up polyhouses and shade nets.

To qualify, an applicant must be a Karnataka farmer who cultivates rain-fed land and owns the agricultural land proposed for the farm pond. The minimum landholding requirement is 1 acre wherever this condition applies under the scheme rules.

Farmers who received a subsidy for a pump set or drip irrigation system during the previous 3 years cannot claim the same benefit again during that period. However, they can still apply for assistance to construct a farm pond, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions.

Farmers can apply through the Raita Samparka Kendra of their hobli. They generally need documents such as an Aadhaar card, RTC extract and bank passbook. After receiving the application, Department officers inspect the land. Farmers must wait for approval before starting farm pond construction.

For assistance, farmers can contact the Agriculture Officer at their Raita Samparka Kendra or the Assistant Director of Agriculture at the taluk office. Reports state that a Government order dated 20 May 2024 extended the scheme to all taluks. However, farmers should confirm the current coverage and availability of funds with their local Kendra before applying.

Farmers who want to operate irrigation pumps using solar energy can also explore the PM KUSUM Yojana. Those looking for annual income support can learn about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, while farmers who want protection against crop losses can explore the PM Fasal Bima Yojana.

Farmers who need credit for seeds, fertilisers and other agricultural expenses can also read about the Kisan Credit Card Scheme.

Farmers, rain-fed cultivators, rural families and anyone interested in agriculture, water conservation and farmer welfare programmes can explore more initiatives on our Karnataka Government Popular and Welfare Schemes List page.

Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries

Farmers in Karnataka’s dry and rain-fed regions often struggle to protect their crops when rainfall becomes irregular or stops during critical growing periods. The Krishi Bhagya Scheme (Krishi Bhagya Yojane), implemented by the Department of Agriculture, helps farmers collect and store rainwater in farm ponds and use it when their crops need irrigation. The Government provides subsidies on different components to reduce the financial burden on farmers.

Subsidy on the Farm Pond

• Financial assistance to construct a farm pond, known as a Krishi Honda, for storing monsoon rainwater
• 80% subsidy for farmers belonging to the general category
• Subsidy of up to 90% for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe farmers
• The estimated cost of a farm pond with polythene lining and fencing is around ₹1.75 lakh, as stated by the Department
• A single farm pond can support irrigation on approximately 5 acres during dry periods

What It Means in Rupees

• For a farm pond costing ₹1.75 lakh, a general category farmer receives approximately ₹1.4 lakh as subsidy and pays the remaining ₹35,000
• For the same pond, an SC or ST farmer receives approximately ₹1.575 lakh as subsidy and contributes around ₹17,500
• These amounts are illustrative examples. The actual subsidy and farmer’s contribution depend on the approved pond size, construction cost and site conditions.

Polythene Lining and Fence

• Polythene lining prevents stored water from seeping into the ground and helps retain it for irrigation
• Protective fencing around the pond improves safety for children and animals
• Both components form part of the farm pond package and are included in its eligible subsidy cost

Pump Set to Lift the Water

• Eligible farmers can receive a subsidy for a diesel pump set to draw water from the farm pond and supply it to their fields
• Earlier reports mention a subsidy of approximately 50% on diesel pump sets. Farmers should confirm the current subsidy rate at their Raita Samparka Kendra.

Sprinkler and Drip Sets

• Farmers can receive assistance to purchase sprinkler or drip irrigation systems for efficient water distribution
• The Department provides a 90% subsidy on these systems to farmers belonging to all categories

Polyhouse and Shade Net

• Farmers planning to grow hybrid vegetables and flowers can also explore assistance for polyhouses and shade nets
• The applicable subsidy amount and limits depend on the scheme guidelines for the relevant year. Confirm the current provisions at your Raita Samparka Kendra before making an investment.

How Far the Scheme Has Reached

• The scheme started in 2014 to support farmers in Karnataka’s rain-fed regions
• It has reportedly benefited more than 1 lakh farmers across 131 taluks in 25 districts, with financial assistance worth approximately ₹968.37 crore
• The Government later extended the scheme to coastal and Malnad districts as well

How These Benefits Help You

• Stored rainwater helps you irrigate crops during critical growth stages when rainfall becomes insufficient
• Better water availability can help you improve crop production and farm income
• You can reduce dependence on purchased water and expensive borewell arrangements
• Sprinkler and drip systems help you use available water more efficiently and reduce wastage

Good to Know

• The estimated farm pond cost of ₹1.75 lakh and other figures are based on earlier Department information. Confirm the latest approved rates with your Raita Samparka Kendra.
• The Department provides subsidies only for approved work that meets its conditions and passes the required inspection.
• Farmers who received a subsidy for a pump set or drip irrigation system during the previous 3 years cannot claim the same benefit again. However, they can still apply for assistance to construct a farm pond.
• The Department decides the number of beneficiaries and available funds each year. Contact your Raita Samparka Kendra early to check availability and application dates.

Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled

The Krishi Bhagya Scheme (Krishi Bhagya Yojane), implemented by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, supports farmers who depend mainly on rainfall for cultivation. It helps them store rainwater in farm ponds and use it for irrigation during dry periods. Before applying, check the eligibility conditions related to land ownership, farm size, location and earlier subsidies.

Who Can Apply

• Farmers residing in Karnataka who cultivate crops on rain-fed or dryland farms
• Farmers who own agricultural land where they can construct a farm pond
• Farmers with at least 1 acre of agricultural land, wherever the Department applies this condition

Land Condition

• The land must be suitable for constructing a farm pond, with enough surrounding area to allow rainwater to flow into it
• The farm pond must be constructed on the applicant’s agricultural land, as recorded in the RTC
• A farm pond can support irrigation on approximately 5 acres of land during dry periods, making it particularly useful for farmers with larger holdings

Subsidy by Category

• Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers are eligible for a subsidy of up to 90%
• Farmers belonging to other categories receive a subsidy of up to 80%
• Farmers from all categories can receive a 90% subsidy on sprinkler or drip irrigation sets under the Department’s micro-irrigation component

Rule About Earlier Benefits

• Farmers who received a subsidy for a pump set or drip irrigation set during the previous 3 years cannot claim the same benefit again during this period
• However, such farmers can still apply for assistance to construct a farm pond

Areas Covered

• The scheme initially covered rain-fed areas across 131 taluks in 25 districts of Karnataka
• The Government later extended its coverage to coastal and Malnad districts
• Reports indicate that a Government Order dated 20 May 2024 extended the scheme to all taluks. However, farmers should confirm the current coverage of their taluk with the nearest Raita Samparka Kendra before applying.

What a Farmer Can Take Under the Scheme

• A farm pond, known as a Krishi Honda, with polythene lining and protective fencing
• A diesel pump set to draw water from the farm pond
• A sprinkler or drip irrigation system to use stored water efficiently
• A polyhouse or shade net for farmers cultivating hybrid vegetables or flowers

Who Is Not Eligible

• Individuals who are not farmers in Karnataka
• Farmers who do not own agricultural land suitable for constructing a farm pond
• Farmers with less than 1 acre of land, wherever the minimum landholding condition applies
• Farmers who received a subsidy for a pump set or drip irrigation system during the previous 3 years, if they are applying for the same benefit again
• Farmers whose taluk is not covered under the scheme for the relevant year
• Farmers who construct the pond before the Department’s officials inspect and approve the proposed site, as the Department may reject the subsidy claim

Check Before You Apply

• Obtain your RTC extract and check that it correctly shows your name, survey number and agricultural land area
• Visit your nearest Raita Samparka Kendra to confirm whether your taluk is covered and whether funds are available for the current year
• Ask the Department for the latest eligibility rules and subsidy conditions, as the scheme provisions may change over time

Documents Required to be Attached

The Krishi Bhagya Scheme (Krishi Bhagya Yojane), implemented by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, helps farmers in dry and rain-fed areas conserve rainwater by constructing farm ponds, known as Krishi Hondas. The scheme also provides subsidies for pump sets and sprinkler or drip irrigation systems. Farmers can submit their applications at the Raita Samparka Kendra of their hobli or online through Seva One Portal. The concerned officers verify the land details and supporting documents before approving the benefits. The following list covers the documents generally needed for the application. Contact your nearest Raita Samparka Kendra to confirm the latest requirements before applying.

Identity Papers

• Aadhaar Card of the farmer
• Mobile number linked to the Aadhaar card
• Recent passport-size photograph of the farmer

Land Papers

• RTC extract (Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops), also known as Pahani, for the land where you plan to construct the farm pond
• Survey number and total land area as recorded in the RTC
• Consent letter from the landowner if the land is registered in the name of a family member

Farmer Registration

• FRUITS ID, the Karnataka Government’s farmer registration number, if required by the Raita Samparka Kendra

Bank Papers

• Copy of the farmer’s bank passbook showing the account number and IFSC code
• A bank account linked with Aadhaar to receive the subsidy directly

Caste Proof for the Higher Subsidy

• Caste certificate for Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers who are eligible for a 90% subsidy instead of the standard 80% subsidy

Papers About the Site

• Land sketch showing the proposed location of the farm pond
• Details of the catchment area from which rainwater will flow into the pond

Application and Earlier Benefits

• Application form provided by the Department through the Raita Samparka Kendra
• Details of any subsidy or assistance previously received for a pump set or drip irrigation system. Farmers who received such assistance during the last 3 years cannot claim the same benefit again, although they can still apply for a farm pond.

Papers for a Pump Set and a Sprinkler or Drip Set

• Quotation or bill for the pump set from a supplier approved by the Department
• Quotation or bill for the sprinkler or drip irrigation system
• Documents showing the available water source, such as the farm pond constructed under the scheme

Papers After You Build the Pond

• Photographs showing the farm pond at different stages of construction
• Bills and payment receipts for polythene lining, fencing and the pump set
• Inspection records or reports prepared by the Department’s officials

How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of the Scheme

Farmers can apply for the Krishi Bhagya Scheme (Krishi Bhagya Yojane) through the Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka. The Raita Samparka Kendra in your hobli accepts applications and guides you through the process. After receiving your application, Agriculture Department officers visit your land to check whether it is suitable for the proposed work.

You must wait for the Department’s approval before starting construction of the farm pond. Do not dig the pond or purchase equipment before receiving permission, as the Department may not approve work started without prior approval. Follow these steps to understand the complete application process.

Before You Start

Step 1: First, check whether you are a farmer in Karnataka and cultivate crops on rain-fed agricultural land. You must also own the land where you want to construct the farm pond.

Step 2: Check whether your landholding is at least 1 acre, wherever this condition applies. Also, make sure that you have not received a subsidy for a pump set or drip irrigation system during the last 3 years.

Step 3: Decide which benefit you want to receive under the scheme. You can apply for a farm pond, pump set, sprinkler or drip irrigation system, or polyhouse, depending on the components available in your area.

Step 4: Collect your land’s RTC extract (Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops). Also, keep your Aadhaar card, bank passbook and caste certificate ready. You may need to submit a caste certificate to claim the higher subsidy available to SC and ST farmers.

Step 5: If you do not have a Farmer Registration and Unified Beneficiary Information System (FRUITS) ID, register through the FRUITS portal of the Government of Karnataka. The Raita Samparka Kendra may ask for this ID during the application process.

Step 6: Read the scheme information available on the Agriculture Department page of Chitradurga district to understand the different components covered under Krishi Bhagya.

Apply at the Raita Samparka Kendra (Offline)

Step 1: Visit the Raita Samparka Kendra (RSK) that serves your hobli. These centres help farmers access services and information provided by the Department of Agriculture.

Step 2: Meet the Agriculture Officer at the centre. You can also contact the Assistant Director of Agriculture at your taluk office for guidance.

Step 3: Tell the officer that you want to apply for the Krishi Bhagya Scheme. Ask whether your taluk is covered under the scheme and whether the Department has funds available for the current year.

Step 4: Request the application form and ask the officer for the exact list of documents you need to submit. The required documents may vary depending on the benefit you want to claim.

Step 5: Fill in the application form with your name, address, land details, bank account information and the scheme component you want to receive. Enter your land details according to your RTC record.

Step 6: Attach the required documents, such as your Aadhaar card, RTC extract, bank passbook and caste certificate, wherever applicable.

Step 7: Submit the completed application to the concerned officer. Collect an acknowledgement or receipt as proof that you have submitted your application.

Apply Online on the Seva One Portal

Step 1: Visit the Seva One portal of the Government of Karnataka to access the online application facility for the Krishi Bhagya Scheme.

Step 2: Open the relevant service or scheme application section and look for the Krishi Bhagya Scheme. Follow the instructions displayed on the portal to proceed.

Step 3: If the portal asks you to log in or register, complete the process using the required details. Keep your Aadhaar-linked mobile number ready if the portal requires OTP verification.

Step 4: Fill in the application form with your personal information, agricultural land details, bank account details and the benefit you want to claim under the scheme.

Step 5: Upload the required documents, review all the information carefully and submit your application through the portal.

Step 6: Save the application reference number or acknowledgement after submission. You can use these details to check your application status or contact the concerned department if you need assistance.

Important: The services and application options available on the portal may change. If you cannot find the Krishi Bhagya Scheme application, contact your nearest Raita Samparka Kendra for guidance on the current application process.

The Officers Check Your Land

Step 1: After submitting your application, wait for an Agriculture Officer or Assistant Agriculture Officer to visit your agricultural land for inspection.

Step 2: Show the officer the exact location where you want to construct the farm pond. Also, explain the surrounding land area from which rainwater can flow into the pond.

Step 3: Allow the officer to inspect and measure the site. The officer will check whether the location is suitable and determine the appropriate pond size according to your land and site conditions.

Step 4: Wait for the Department to examine and approve your application. The application may pass through the concerned hobli, taluk and district-level offices before final approval.

Step 5: Stay in touch with your Raita Samparka Kendra to know the application status and when your turn may come. The Department selects beneficiaries according to the available funds and the number of applications received.

Build Your Farm Pond

Step 1: Start construction only after receiving approval from the Department. Do not begin digging before the officers complete the inspection and approve your application.

Step 2: Dig the farm pond according to the size and specifications approved by the Department. Do not change the approved design without consulting the concerned officer.

Step 3: Cover the inner surface of the pond with the approved polythene lining. This lining helps prevent water from seeping into the soil and allows you to store rainwater for a longer period.

Step 4: Install protective fencing around the pond to reduce the risk of accidents involving children and animals.

Step 5: Keep all bills, receipts and other payment records safely. Also, take photographs of the construction work at different stages, as the Department may ask for them during verification.

Take a Pump Set and a Sprinkler or Drip Set

Step 1: Contact your Raita Samparka Kendra to find out which pump sets, sprinkler systems and drip irrigation equipment qualify for assistance under the scheme.

Step 2: Purchase the equipment from a supplier approved or accepted by the Department. Follow the officer’s instructions before making any purchase.

Step 3: Keep the purchase bills and payment receipts for the pump set and sprinkler or drip irrigation system. You may need to submit these documents to claim the subsidy.

Step 4: Inform the concerned Agriculture Officer after installing the equipment so that the Department can inspect and verify it.

Get Your Subsidy

Step 1: Inform your Raita Samparka Kendra when you complete the approved construction work or install the equipment.

Step 2: Allow the Department’s officers to inspect the completed farm pond, polythene lining, protective fencing and other approved equipment. They will check whether the work follows the approved specifications.

Step 3: Submit the required bills, receipts, photographs and bank account details. Provide any additional documents that the officers request during verification.

Step 4: After successful verification and approval, the Department processes your subsidy according to the applicable rules. The stated assistance is 80% for general category farmers and up to 90% for SC and ST farmers for eligible farm pond construction. Ask your Raita Samparka Kendra about the approved subsidy amount and how the Department will release the payment.

If You Need Help

Step 1: For any question about eligibility, documents, application status or subsidy, first contact the Agriculture Officer at your nearest Raita Samparka Kendra.

Step 2: If the Kendra cannot resolve your issue, visit the Assistant Director of Agriculture at your taluk office and explain your problem.

Step 3: Visit the official Raitamitra portal of the Department of Agriculture to check the latest scheme guidelines, government orders and updates.

Step 4: You can also refer to the Karnataka Government agriculture schemes document, which includes information about the objectives and features of the Krishi Bhagya Scheme.

Important: Do not pay anyone to get your application approved. Before submitting your application or starting any work, confirm the latest eligibility rules, available funds, subsidy rates and application procedure with your Raita Samparka Kendra. This will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and problems during subsidy verification.

Krishi Bhagya Scheme and Other Schemes That Build a Farm Pond: Which One Is for You

Farmers in Karnataka can get support for farm ponds and other water conservation structures through different government schemes. However, each scheme serves a different purpose and supports different types of work. The Agriculture Department lists three such schemes that farmers can explore according to their needs.

If you want to construct a farm pond on your own agricultural land and need a pump set or sprinkler system to use the stored water, the Krishi Bhagya Scheme may be the right option.

If your village needs a larger water conservation structure, such as a check dam or percolation tank, contact the Agriculture Department to explore the other schemes. Before applying, confirm the applicable guidelines and avoid claiming benefits for the same work under two schemes.

Important Links Available of the Scheme

• Seva One Portal, Government of Karnataka, online application for Krishi Bhagya Scheme
• Krishi Bhagya Scheme guidelines and government orders, Department of Agriculture
• Raitamitra Portal, Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka
• FRUITS Portal, farmer registration and FRUITS ID
• Agriculture Department schemes and Krishi Bhagya components, Chitradurga district
• Agriculture Department schemes for farmers, Raichur district
• Official Website of the Government of Karnataka

Contact Details in Case of Help Needed

• Department: Commissioner of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, Seshadri Road, K.R. Circle, Bengaluru – 560001
• Phone: 080-22212804
• Email: agricommr.kar@nic.in
• Hobli Level: The Agriculture Officer of the Raita Samparka Kendra of your hobli, who takes your application
• Taluk Level: The Assistant Director of Agriculture of your taluk
• District Level: The Joint Director of Agriculture of your district

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tabassum

Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.