Title: The PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana: Empowering India’s Farmers
Introduction:
The farming community in India plays a pivotal role in the nation’s progress. With an aim to uplift and support the lives of farmers, the Government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, often referred to as PM-Kisan. This ambitious scheme provides significant financial assistance to small and marginal farmers across the country. Let’s delve into the key details and benefits of this transformative initiative.
Objective and Implementation:
Launched in February 2019, PM-Kisan aims to provide direct income support to farmers by transferring funds directly into their bank accounts. The program is administered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. It encompasses eligible farmers across the country, regardless of their landholding size.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the PM-Kisan scheme, farmers must fulfill several eligibility criteria, including:
1. Being a citizen of India.
2. Owning cultivable land.
3. Small and marginal farmers with less than two hectares of landholding.
4. Families holding constitutional posts, former or current MPs/MLAs, serving or retired government employees, and individuals having an income tax return of over Rs. 10,000 in the previous financial year are not eligible.
Financial Assistance:
Under PM-Kisan, eligible farmers receive financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 per year in three equal installments. These installments are directly transferred into the farmers’ bank accounts, with the first installment commencing from 1st December every year.
Enrollment Process:
Farmers interested in availing themselves of the benefits of PM-Kisan can register themselves through the official PM-Kisan web portal, PM-Kisan mobile app, or directly at their respective local revenue offices. Farmers must provide essential identification documents and details of their agricultural land to complete the enrollment process successfully.
Improvements in the Scheme:
Since its launch, the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana has undergone several enhancements to maximize its impact and reach. Several state governments have actively collaborated to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, the government has introduced Aadhaar-based beneficiary verification to eliminate duplication and ensure that benefits reach genuine farmers.
Benefits and Impact:
PM-Kisan has transformed the lives of millions of farmers, offering them a much-needed financial cushion. The scheme has provided direct income support to over 9.7 crore (97 million) farmers across the country, providing them with improved access to resources and financial stability. The funds received through PM-Kisan have enabled farmers to invest in better inputs, machinery, and technology, thereby increasing agricultural productivity and income levels. The scheme has contributed significantly to reducing rural distress and addressing the agrarian crisis in India.
Conclusion:
The PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana showcases the government’s unwavering commitment towards the well-being and empowerment of farmers. By providing direct financial assistance and empowering them to make efficient use of resources, this scheme has played a crucial role in transforming the lives of millions of farmers across India. PM-Kisan not only supports the agricultural sector but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the nation.