About the Scheme
ADP transforms 112 most underdeveloped districts across India (now called Aspirational Districts) in health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and financial inclusion. Launched Jan 5, 2018 by PM Modi. Implemented by NITI Aayog. Uses competitive and cooperative federalism. 112 districts selected from 28 states. Delta ranking system motivates districts. Many districts have graduated significantly.
Target Beneficiaries: 4+ crore people in 112 most underdeveloped districts
Key Features
- 112 Aspirational Districts in 28 states; selected on composite index of backwardness
- 5 themes: Health & Nutrition, Education, Agriculture & Water Resources, Financial Inclusion, Infrastructure
- Competitive ranking: monthly delta ranking shows improvement; top 3 districts felicitated
- Central, State, District government officers work together; central prabhari officer per district
- 49 districts have graduated to near national average (2025); replaced by Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)
- Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) launched 2023: 500 blocks in 329 districts
- Inspiration for PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana model