Title: PM-Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana: Empowering Farmers for a Better Future
Introduction:
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY) is a special pension scheme launched by the Government of India in 2019. Aimed at providing social security and financial stability to small and marginal farmers, this scheme holds the potential to positively impact the lives of millions in the agricultural sector. This article presents an overview of the PM-Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process.
Key Objectives and Benefits:
The primary objective of the PM-KMY is to ensure that farmers have access to a regular pension after reaching the age of 60. By contributing a certain amount towards the scheme during their working years, farmers can secure their post-retirement future. Under this scheme, farmers receive a fixed pension of Rs. 3,000 per month, which is deposited directly into their bank accounts.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the PM-KMY, farmers must meet the following criteria:
1. Age: Farmers between 18 and 40 years can apply for the scheme.
2. Landholding: Farmers should be small and marginal landholders as defined by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
3. Income: The annual income of the farmer should not exceed Rs. 1.5 lakhs.
Registration and Application Process:
To apply for the scheme, farmers can visit their nearest Common Service Centres (CSCs) or can approach the authorized Pension Enrollment Agency (PEA). The application process is as follows:
1. Visit a CSC or PEA: Farmers should visit their nearest CSCs or the authorized PEA for registration.
2. Provide Aadhaar and Landholding Details: Farmers need to provide their Aadhaar number and landholding details during registration.
3. Contribute the First Premium: After successful registration, farmers need to contribute the first premium as per the scheme’s guidelines.
4. Receive a Pension Card: Once enrolled and after successful contribution, farmers receive a Pension Card containing their pension details.
Features and Implementation:
The PM-KMY is managed by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Some key features of the scheme are:
1. Voluntary and Contributory Scheme: The scheme is voluntary, and farmers need to contribute a fixed monthly amount until the age of 60.
2. Support from the Government: The government also contributes to the pension fund on behalf of the eligible farmers.
3. Exit and Withdrawal: If any farmer chooses to exit the scheme before the age of 60, their total contribution along with interest will be returned.
4. Nomination Facility: The scheme allows farmers to nominate their spouse for receiving the pension in case of their unfortunate demise.
Conclusion:
The PM-Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana plays a crucial role in improving the lives of small and marginal farmers by providing them with a secure pension after retirement. By ensuring financial stability, the scheme aims to empower farmers and improve their livelihoods. The government’s commitment to the welfare of the farming community is commendable, and it is hoped that the PM-KMY will bring about positive transformation in the lives of millions of farmers across the country.