Title: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna: All You Need to Know
Introduction:
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna (PM-Kisan) is an ambitious scheme launched by the Government of India to provide financial support to small and marginal farmers across the country. The scheme was announced in February 2019 and aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers and ensure the holistic development of agriculture in India. In this article, we will address some common queries related to PM-Kisan, providing a comprehensive understanding of the scheme.
1. What is PM-Kisan?
PM-Kisan is a central government scheme that provides income support to eligible farmers in India. Under this program, ₹6,000 (approx. $80) per annum is directly transferred to the bank accounts of eligible farmers in three equal installments. The scheme is fully funded by the Government of India.
2. Who is eligible for PM-Kisan?
The following categories of farmers are eligible for the PM-Kisan scheme:
a) Small and marginal farmers: Those who own cultivable land up to 2 hectares (5 acres).
b) The definition of a family: The scheme defines a family as a husband, wife, and minor children, so a joint family with several adults will be considered a single eligible entity.
c) Income criteria: Farmers’ income should be taxable. However, certain groups like serving or retired government employees, professionals, and taxpayers are excluded.
3. How to register for PM-Kisan?
Farmers can apply for the PM-Kisan scheme through both online and offline modes. The online registration can be done on the official PM-Kisan website, while offline registration can be done at local Common Service Centers (CSCs) or any Authorized Nodal Bodies (ANBs), along with required documents such as land records, Aadhaar card, and bank account details.
4. How are the funds distributed?
Once registered, eligible farmers receive their income support directly into their bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The funds are distributed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 (approx. $27) each. The transfers are made in December, April, and August every year.
5. What are the advantages of the PM-Kisan scheme?
The PM-Kisan scheme has several advantages, including:
a) Financial support: The scheme offers direct financial assistance, enabling farmers to meet their agricultural needs, invest in seeds, fertilizers, and machinery, and improve productivity.
b) Boosts income: The scheme’s income support helps to stabilize farmers’ income and provides a source of financial stability for agricultural households.
c) Reduces debt burden: By providing direct income support to farmers, PM-Kisan aims to reduce the debt burden on them, preventing agricultural distress and reducing dependence on high-interest loans.
d) Encourages agriculture growth: The scheme aims to address rural poverty and boost the agricultural sector, contributing to overall national development.
Conclusion:
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna has emerged as a significant step towards empowering Indian farmers and ensuring their economic well-being. By providing direct income support, the scheme aims to lift small and marginal farmers out of poverty and create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem. With continuous improvements and farmer-centric initiatives, the PM-Kisan scheme is poised to play a crucial role in the transformation of India’s agriculture sector.