Cabinet Approves ₹4.35 Lakh Crore for PM-KISAN, Energy, Sports

The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a substantial commitment exceeding Rs 4.35 lakh crore over five years, approving extensions for the PM-KISAN scheme, a new offshore exploration initiative, and a significant expansion of the Khelo India program. These decisions, made on Friday, allocate public resources across critical sectors including agriculture, energy, and sports.

PM-KISAN Scheme Extended Through 2031

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme will continue until 2030-31, receiving an outlay of Rs 3,15,614 crore. This initiative delivers financial support directly to eligible farmer families across the nation.

The scheme’s operational mechanism involves several key steps:

• Each eligible farmer family receives Rs 6,000 annually.
• This amount is disbursed in three equal installments.
• Funds are directly transferred into Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts.

Boosting Energy Security with ‘Samudra Manthan’

India’s energy security is set to receive a boost with the Cabinet’s approval of ‘Samudra Manthan,’ the National Offshore Exploration Scheme. This program, overseen by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, targets enhanced domestic production.

Key figures for the ‘Samudra Manthan’ initiative include:

• Total outlay: Rs 84,084 crore.
• Implementation period: Over five years.
• Primary goal: Significantly increase offshore exploration activity.

The scheme’s core objective is to reduce the country’s reliance on imported crude oil by driving domestic oil and gas production. This strategic investment aims to fortify India’s self-sufficiency in energy resources.

Ambitious Expansion for Khelo India Program

The Cabinet also sanctioned a significant expansion of the Khelo India Scheme, alongside an increased allocation for Assistance to National Sports Federations. This represents the most ambitious sports development initiative since India’s Independence.

The financial commitment for sports development totals:

• Combined outlay over five years: Rs 36,441 crore.
• Specific allocation for Khelo India: Rs 29,054 crore.

The expanded program is designed to identify and nurture athletic talent from the grassroots level through new initiatives. It will introduce Khelo India Feeder Schools and Khelo India Utkrishta Vidyalayas to foster emerging sports stars.

Further objectives of the expanded Khelo India scheme include:

• Creating opportunities for women athletes and para-athletes.
• Promoting indigenous sports within the country.
• Preparing India to host major international sporting events.

These collective approvals underscore a strategic governmental focus on long-term growth and self-reliance across vital national sectors. The substantial financial commitments aim to drive progress in agricultural support, energy independence, and athletic excellence.