Title: The Complete Guide to PM Kisan Yojana: Benefits, Eligibility, and How to Apply
Introduction:
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM Kisan Yojana) is a government initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to farmers across India. Launched in 2018, the scheme has since benefitted millions of farmers, helping to improve their livelihoods and agricultural practices. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of the PM Kisan Yojana, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process.
What is PM Kisan Yojana?
PM Kisan Yojana is a central sector scheme that provides income support of Rs. 6,000 per year to eligible farmers. The assistance is provided in three equal installments directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries. The scheme aims to ensure a minimum income for farmers and to support them in meeting their agricultural needs.Benefits of PM Kisan Yojana:
- Financial Assistance: The scheme provides much-needed financial support to farmers, helping them meet their agricultural expenses and improve their standard of living.
- Income Security: By providing a fixed annual income, the scheme offers a sense of security to farmers, especially during times of crop failure or financial distress.
- Encourages Farming: PM Kisan Yojana encourages farmers to continue farming activities by providing them with a steady source of income, thereby promoting agriculture in the country.
- Direct Benefit Transfer: The scheme ensures that the financial assistance reaches the beneficiaries directly, without any intermediaries, reducing the chances of corruption and leakages.
Eligibility Criteria for PM Kisan Yojana:
- Ownership of Land: Only farmers who own cultivable land are eligible for the scheme. Tenant farmers, sharecroppers, and landless agricultural laborers are not eligible.
- Size of Landholding: Small and marginal farmers with landholding of up to 2 hectares are eligible for the scheme. Families with multiple landholdings can also avail of the benefits.
- Exclusion Criteria: Persons who have retired from government service, professionals like doctors, engineers, lawyers, and those who have paid income tax in the last assessment year are not eligible.
How to Apply for PM Kisan Yojana:
- Online Application: Farmers can apply for the scheme online through the official PM Kisan Yojana portal. They need to provide details such as Aadhaar number, bank account details, and landholding information.
- Offline Application: Farmers can also apply for the scheme through the Common Service Centers (CSCs) in their area. They need to fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents.