Introduction to PM-KISAN
Farming is the backbone of India’s economy, yet millions of small and marginal farmers struggle with low income, rising costs, and lack of support. To ease this burden and improve farmers’ livelihoods, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) – a revolutionary initiative providing direct financial assistance to farmers.
Let’s explore how PM-KISAN is changing the face of Indian agriculture by offering income support and empowering farmers across the nation.
What Is Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)?
The PM-KISAN Scheme was launched in 2019 to provide income support to small and marginal farmers. Under this program, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 per year in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each, transferred directly to their bank accounts.
This initiative aims to supplement the financial needs of farmers for purchasing essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and for other agricultural expenses.
The Primary Objectives of PM-KISAN
1. Financial Support for Farmers
To provide timely direct income support, easing the financial strain of farming activities and promoting investment in agriculture.
2. Reducing Farmer Distress
By providing a stable income source, PM-KISAN helps reduce farmer distress, debt cycles, and financial uncertainty, especially during crop failure or price fluctuation periods.
3. Promoting Digital Financial Inclusion
The scheme emphasizes direct bank transfers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency and minimizing leakages.
Who Is Eligible for PM-KISAN?
Eligible Beneficiaries
- Small and Marginal Farmers with cultivable land
- Must hold valid land ownership documents
- Citizens of India
Exclusions
- Institutional landholders
- Former and current holders of constitutional posts
- Income Tax payers and professionals such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, etc.
Documentation Required
To apply, farmers need:
- Aadhaar Card
- Land Ownership Document (Patta/ROR/Record of Rights)
- Bank Account details linked with Aadhaar
How Does PM-KISAN Work?
Step 1 – Registration of Farmers
Farmers can register via the official PM-KISAN Portal or approach nearby Common Service Centers (CSCs). The process involves submitting required documents and verifying land ownership.
Step 2 – Government Validation
Once submitted, applications are verified by local authorities, and approved farmer lists are published online.
Step 3 – Direct Benefit Transfer
Upon approval, ₹6,000 per year is transferred in three installments of ₹2,000 directly to the farmer’s bank account.
Benefits of PM-KISAN
Financial Stability
Regular cash transfers provide farmers with much-needed liquidity to purchase seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs without relying on high-interest loans.
Ease of Access
The simple online application process and bank transfers make accessing the scheme hassle-free and transparent.
Inclusive Coverage
Even land-owning women farmers are eligible, promoting gender equality in agriculture.
Promotes Agricultural Growth
With financial support, farmers can adopt better farming practices and technologies, improving crop yield and overall productivity.
Challenges and Limitations
Land Ownership Proof
Many small farmers, especially in tribal and remote areas, lack proper land ownership documents, limiting their access to the scheme.
Exclusion Errors
Some deserving farmers may get excluded due to technical issues or incomplete documentation.
Delay in Installments
While the government aims to transfer installments regularly, delays occasionally occur due to verification or banking issues.
Success Stories
Manoj Singh’s Agricultural Revolution
Manoj Singh, a small farmer from Uttar Pradesh, was struggling to manage his farming expenses. After getting enrolled in the PM-KISAN scheme, he received regular financial assistance directly into his bank account. With the money, he upgraded to better seeds and fertilizers, improving his crop yield significantly and boosting his income sustainably.
Comparison with Other Farmer Welfare Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
While PMFBY provides crop insurance to protect against crop loss due to natural calamities, PM-KISAN provides direct income support regardless of crop conditions.
The Soil Health Card helps farmers improve soil productivity through regular testing, while PM-KISAN directly provides financial support to meet input costs.
Future Prospects of PM-KISAN
Towards Doubling Farmers’ Income
The government’s long-term goal is to double farmers’ income by 2022 through schemes like PM-KISAN by providing direct support, promoting modern techniques, and encouraging diversification.
Integration with Digital India
With efforts to link land records, Aadhaar, and bank accounts, the scheme is evolving into a fully digital ecosystem, reducing paperwork and improving efficiency.
Economic Upliftment
By providing direct financial assistance, the scheme contributes to improving rural purchasing power and overall economic growth in agricultural regions.
How to Track PM-KISAN Installments?
Farmers can track the status of their payments by visiting the official PM-KISAN Portal. Entering their Aadhaar Number or mobile number allows them to view installment history, next expected payment, and registration status.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) stands as a game-changing initiative in India’s agriculture sector. By providing direct income support, it empowers small and marginal farmers to invest in better inputs, avoid debt traps, and secure their future. As the scheme evolves, it continues to promote a digitally inclusive, economically resilient farming community, enabling India to achieve agricultural prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1 – Who is eligible for PM-KISAN?
Small and marginal farmers with valid land ownership documents and Indian citizenship.
Q2 – How much financial support is provided?
A total of ₹6,000 per year, distributed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each.
Q3 – How can I apply for PM-KISAN?
Visit the official PM-KISAN Portal or approach nearby Common Service Centers (CSCs).
Q4 – Is there any cost to apply or receive PM-KISAN benefits?
No, the application and benefit transfer are completely free for eligible farmers.
Q5 – How can I track the status of my PM-KISAN application?
By visiting the official PM-KISAN Portal and entering your Aadhaar number or mobile number.