Title: PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana: Empowering India’s Farmers
Introduction:
In a bid to uplift the socioeconomic conditions of Indian farmers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ambitious PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, also known as the PM-Kisan scheme, on February 24, 2019. This pioneering initiative aims to provide direct income support to approximately 145 million small and marginal farmers across the country. By ensuring direct cash transfers to farmers’ bank accounts, the scheme strives to alleviate rural distress and financially empower those who toil tirelessly to feed our nation.
Key Objectives:
1. Income Support:
Under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, eligible farmers receive financial assistance of ₹6,000 per year in three installments of ₹2,000 each. The cash transfers enable farmers to meet their farming expenses, manage working capital, purchase essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and machinery, and enhance agricultural productivity.
2. Boosting Farmers’ Welfare:
The scheme acknowledges the vital role played by small and marginal farmers in the Indian agricultural landscape. It seeks to supplement their income and improve their standard of living, ultimately leading to rural development, poverty reduction, and increased agricultural production.
3. Strengthening Rural Infrastructure:
A portion of the funds allocated under the PM-Kisan scheme has been dedicated to bolstering rural infrastructure and agricultural endeavors. Investments in irrigation systems, warehouses, and other agricultural infrastructure contribute to higher productivity, reduced post-harvest losses, and improved market access for farmers.
4. Implementing Technology:
The scheme aligns with the government’s vision of promoting digital governance and transforming the agricultural sector through technology. By utilizing technology-driven platforms, the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana ensures efficient and transparent disbursal of funds directly into farmers’ bank accounts. This reduces bureaucratic hurdles, eliminates middlemen, and instills a sense of empowerment among farmers.
Implementation and Eligibility:
The scheme extends its support to farmers who have cultivated land up to 2 hectares. Small and marginal farmers, as well as farmer families deemed eligible under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database, are automatically included in the program. Farmers are required to maintain updated Aadhaar card details to ensure smooth and direct transfer of funds.
The PM-Kisan scheme is monitored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare at the central level. Implementation responsibilities are shared with the state and union territory governments, who manage the scheme at the ground level and oversee its seamless execution.
Conclusion:
The PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana signifies the government’s commitment to uplifting the agricultural community and fostering rural development. By extending direct financial support to small and marginal farmers, the scheme aims to mitigate their financial burdens, alleviate poverty, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
While the PM-Kisan scheme has brought considerable benefits to millions of farmers across the country, continued efforts should focus on addressing challenges such as ensuring accurate identification of eligible beneficiaries, raising awareness about the scheme, and encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural techniques.
By providing direct income support and strengthening rural infrastructure, the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana endeavors to create an enabling environment where Indian farmers can not only sustain themselves but also thrive, contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity.