Article: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna – Empowering Indian Farmers
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna (PM-KISAN) is a pioneering initiative by the Government of India to provide financial support to small and marginal farmers across the country. Launched in February 2019, the scheme aims to boost the income of farmers and facilitate their empowerment.
Under the PM-KISAN scheme, an income support of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to eligible farmer families. This support is transferred directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries in three equal installments of Rs 2,000 each. The assistance is offered to farmers in order to ensure the continuity of agricultural practices, improve farm productivity, and support them during times of need.
One of the key advantages of PM-KISAN is its wide coverage. The scheme covers all small and marginal farmers who possess cultivable agricultural land in India. A small farmer is defined as one who owns less than 2 hectares of land, while a marginal farmer owns land between 2 to 5 hectares. It is estimated that around 12 crore farmer families are eligible to benefit from this scheme. This inclusivity ensures that the scheme reaches the poorest and most vulnerable farmers, providing them with the much-needed financial assistance.
To implement the scheme efficiently and avoid any discrepancies, the government established a transparent and robust system for enrollment. In order to enroll, eligible farmers are required to apply online or through the Common Service Centers (CSCs) located in their respective villages. Farmers are also required to provide necessary documentation such as land records, Aadhaar cards, and bank account details. The online platform and CSCs have made it easier for farmers to register for the scheme and ensure that the benefits are delivered directly to them.
The PM-KISAN scheme has been particularly significant in reducing the financial burden on farmers, thereby enhancing their economic stability. The direct benefit transfer ensures that the funds reach the farmers without any intermediary, reducing the chances of corruption or exploitation. Furthermore, the scheme has helped uplift the rural economy by providing farmers with a dependable source of income. By prioritizing the welfare of the farming community, the government aims to address the pressing issues of poverty, rural distress, and agrarian crisis.
Since its inception, the PM-KISAN scheme has made substantial progress in reaching out to farmers across the country. Over the years, it has become an important component of the government’s larger goal of doubling farmer incomes. The implementation of the scheme has been complemented with various other initiatives such as soil health cards, crop insurance, skill development programs, and access to agricultural credit.
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna has not only proven to be instrumental in boosting the income of farmers but has also played a crucial role in transforming the lives of millions in the agricultural sector. By providing direct financial assistance and addressing the challenges faced by farmers, the government is fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in rural India. It is through initiatives like PM-KISAN that the vision of an economically empowered and prosperous farming community can be realized.