Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) is a groundbreaking initiative by the Government of India aimed at supporting small and marginal farmers across the country. Launched in February 2019, this welfare program provides direct income support to farmers in order to augment their income and ease their financial burden.
Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmers receive a cash benefit of ₹6,000 (approximately $81) per year directly into their bank accounts. The benefits are disbursed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each, ensuring regular and consistent support for farmers. This initiative is expected to benefit over 120 million farmers, including both landholding and landless cultivators.
The objective of this scheme is to enable small and marginal farmers to meet their various agricultural needs, such as purchasing inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, paying for labor, and investing in machinery or equipment. By providing direct income support, the government aims to address the financial challenges faced by farmers, including those caused by crop failures, market fluctuations, and the uncertainties of agriculture.
To be eligible for the PM-KISAN scheme, farmers must meet certain criteria defined by the government. The eligibility criteria include owning cultivable land, either individually or jointly, and cultivating crops on that land. Additionally, state and central government employees, along with higher-income individuals paying income tax, are not eligible for the scheme.
The implementation of the PM-KISAN scheme is carried out in a decentralized manner, with funds being directly transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts in a timely manner. The entire process is digitized to ensure transparency, eliminate intermediary involvement, and prevent leakages. The government has also developed an official PM-KISAN portal where applicants can register, check their application status, and access other relevant information.
By enabling direct income support, the PM-KISAN scheme has had a transformative impact on the lives of farmers and their families. The financial assistance provided through this scheme ensures stability and helps farmers overcome financial hardships. Additionally, it contributes to the government’s vision of doubling farmers’ income by 2022.
Furthermore, the PM-KISAN scheme complements other agricultural programs and initiatives by the government. It not only strengthens the agricultural sector but also promotes overall rural development and inclusive growth. By empowering farmers with financial stability, the government aims to boost rural income, reduce distress migration, and enhance agricultural productivity.
In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) is a landmark scheme that recognizes the importance of farmers in the nation’s development. By providing direct income support to small and marginal farmers, the government aims to alleviate their financial burden and enable them to invest in their agricultural activities. As this scheme continues to benefit millions of farmers across the country, it is a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of India’s farming community.