In a significant move to support and empower farmers, the Indian government has recently launched the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) Scheme. This scheme aims to provide direct income support to farmers and ensure their economic stability.
Under the PM-Kisan Scheme, small and marginal farmers holding up to two hectares of land will receive financial assistance of ₹6,000 ($83) per year, provided in three equal installments of ₹2,000 ($28) each. The funds will be transferred directly to the farmers’ bank accounts to ensure transparency and reduce corruption in the distribution process. This scheme is expected to benefit over 12 crore (120 million) farmers across the country.
The primary objective of the PM-Kisan Scheme is to enable farmers to meet their farming expenses and improve their livelihoods. By providing them with direct financial assistance, the government aims to mitigate the challenges faced by farmers, including the rising cost of agricultural inputs, unpredictable weather conditions, and market fluctuations.
To be eligible for the PM-Kisan Scheme, farmers must be the actual cultivators of the land and have their names enlisted in the land records maintained by the state or central governments. The scheme also considers the inclusion of all eligible farmers, irrespective of their landholding size, in order to ensure comprehensive support to the agricultural community.
In addition to financial assistance, the PM-Kisan Scheme also emphasizes the importance of farmer welfare by encouraging them to adopt modern agricultural practices, innovative technologies, and sustainable farming methods. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance agricultural productivity, improve crop yields, and ultimately uplift the socio-economic status of farmers.
The launch of the PM-Kisan Scheme reflects the government’s commitment to prioritize the welfare and well-being of the farming community. By providing direct income support and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, this scheme aims to empower farmers and contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector in India.