The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a government scheme launched in 2018 to provide financial support to small and marginal farmers across the country. Under this scheme, eligible farmers receive a cash transfer of Rs. 6,000 per year in three equal installments directly to their bank accounts.
To implement the scheme, the government has launched an e-KYC (Know Your Customer) platform to facilitate the identification and verification process of farmers. The e-KYC platform is an online mechanism that enables farmers to register themselves for the scheme and get their details verified by the authorities.
The e-KYC platform is designed to make the process of registration and verification hassle-free and efficient. Farmers can access the platform through the PM-KISAN website or mobile application. They can register by entering their Aadhaar number, bank account details, and other relevant information. Once the registration is done, the system validates the data with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and the bank.
After successful validation, the farmer’s name is added to the PM-KISAN database, and the first installment of Rs. 2,000 is credited to their bank account within 10 days. The subsequent installments are disbursed after six months, subject to the fulfillment of eligibility criteria.
The e-KYC platform has several benefits for farmers and the government. It eliminates the need for manual paperwork and reduces the chances of errors and fraudulent practices. It also simplifies the verification process and ensures that only eligible beneficiaries receive the benefits.
The e-KYC platform is continuously evolving, and the government is adding new features and functionalities to make the process more transparent and streamlined. Farmers can also use the platform to update their details, check their payment status, and lodge complaints, if any.
In conclusion, the e-KYC platform is an essential component of the PM-KISAN scheme, and it has played a crucial role in ensuring the timely disbursal of benefits to farmers. It has also helped in digitizing the agricultural sector and creating a more inclusive and equitable system for small and marginal farmers.