The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, designed to provide financial assistance to small and marginal farmers across the nation. Launched on December 1, 2018, the scheme aims to supplement the income of farmers, ensuring they have the necessary resources to procure essential inputs for crop cultivation and maintain proper crop health.
Objective of PM-KISAN
The primary objective of PM-KISAN is to offer direct income support to small and marginal farmers, thereby enhancing their financial stability. By providing ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments, the scheme aims to:
- Ensure Proper Crop Health: Enable farmers to purchase necessary inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
- Improve Yield Quality: Support the adoption of modern agricultural practices.
- Prevent Indebtedness: Reduce dependence on moneylenders for financial needs.
- Promote Sustainable Farming: Encourage continued engagement in agricultural activities.
Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from PM-KISAN, farmers must meet the following criteria:
- Land Ownership: Must be a landowner with cultivable landholding.
- Exclusions:
- Income Tax Payers: Individuals who pay income tax are excluded.
- Government Employees: Serving or retired government employees are not eligible.
- Professionals: Doctors, engineers, and similar professionals are excluded.
- Wealthy Individuals: Those with substantial wealth or income are not covered.
Implementation and Funding
PM-KISAN is a Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Government of India. The financial assistance is directly transferred to the bank accounts of beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and efficiency. The scheme has been instrumental in providing timely support to farmers, especially during critical agricultural periods.
Impact and Reach
Since its inception, PM-KISAN has significantly impacted the agricultural community. As of the 18th installment (August 2024-November 2024), over 9.5 crore beneficiaries have received assistance. The distribution of beneficiaries across states is as follows:
- Uttar Pradesh: 2,25,78,654
- Maharashtra: 91,43,515
- West Bengal: 45,03,158
- Bihar: 75,81,009
- Madhya Pradesh: 81,37,378
- Tamil Nadu: 21,94,651
- Karnataka: 43,48,125
- Odisha: 31,50,640
- Rajasthan: 70,32,020
- Andhra Pradesh: 41,22,499
These figures highlight the extensive reach and effectiveness of the scheme in supporting farmers nationwide.
Comparison with Similar Schemes
PM-KISAN draws inspiration from state-level initiatives like Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu and Andhra Pradesh’s Annadatha Sukhibhava. While these state schemes provide direct financial assistance to farmers, PM-KISAN offers a uniform support structure across the country, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
How to Apply
Farmers can apply for PM-KISAN through the following methods:
- Online Portal: Visit the official PM-KISAN website and complete the registration process.
- State Government Portals: Some states have dedicated portals for PM-KISAN registration.
- Common Service Centers (CSCs): Farmers can approach CSCs for assistance in the application process.
It is essential to ensure that all details provided during registration are accurate to avoid delays or rejections.
Checking Application Status
Applicants can monitor the status of their PM-KISAN application by:
- Visiting the Official Website: Use the ‘Beneficiary Status’ section to check the application status.
- Contacting State Agriculture Departments: For state-specific queries and assistance.
Recent Developments
The Government of India continues to enhance PM-KISAN by integrating it with other welfare schemes and improving its implementation mechanisms. Efforts are underway to include tenant farmers and ensure that the benefits reach the most deserving individuals.
PM-KISAN stands as a testament to the Government of India’s commitment to uplifting the agricultural community. By providing direct financial support, the scheme empowers farmers to invest in their livelihoods, thereby contributing to the nation’s food security and economic growth.
