Introduction
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme is a government initiative aimed at providing direct income support to farmers in India. Launched in December 2018, this scheme has been instrumental in improving the financial well-being of small and marginal farmers across the country. Since its inception, the PM-KISAN scheme has undergone several updates to ensure efficient delivery of benefits to its intended beneficiaries. In this article, we will delve into the latest updates on the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.
Enhanced Budget Allocation
One of the significant updates to the PM-KISAN scheme is the enhanced budget allocation. The government has increased the budgetary allocation for the scheme to Rs. 65,000 crores for the financial year 2021-22. This move reflects the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and empowering the agricultural sector.
Expansion of Beneficiary Coverage
Another crucial update is the expansion of beneficiary coverage under the PM-KISAN scheme. The scheme now covers all cropping farmers in India, irrespective of the size of their landholdings. This expansion has brought more farmers under the ambit of the scheme, ensuring that a larger section of the farming community receives the benefits of direct income support.
Introduction of PM-KISAN Mobile App
To streamline the processes related to the PM-KISAN scheme and enhance transparency, the government has introduced the PM-KISAN mobile app. This app allows farmers to register for the scheme, check their payment status, and correct any discrepancies in their details. The PM-KISAN mobile app has made it easier for farmers to access information and avail themselves of the benefits of the scheme.
Inclusion of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Sector
In a recent update, the government has announced the inclusion of farmers engaged in the fisheries and animal husbandry sectors under the PM-KISAN scheme. This extension of benefits to fisherfolk and animal rearers demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting all sections of the agricultural community.
Implementation of Aadhaar Authentication
To prevent any discrepancies in the distribution of benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme, the government has made Aadhaar authentication mandatory for beneficiaries. This move has helped in verifying the identity of beneficiaries and ensuring that the benefits reach the intended farmers without any errors.
Facilitation of Online Self-Registration
To simplify the registration process for the PM-KISAN scheme, the government has facilitated online self-registration for farmers. Now, farmers can register themselves for the scheme through the PM-KISAN portal or the mobile app, eliminating the need for intermediary agents and ensuring direct access to benefits.
Incorporation of Land Records
To streamline the verification process and prevent any duplicity in beneficiary lists, the PM-KISAN scheme now incorporates land records for authentication. By linking land records to the scheme, the government can ascertain the eligibility of farmers based on their landholding details, making the process more efficient and transparent.
Enhanced Mode of Payments
In a bid to expedite the payment process and ensure timely disbursement of benefits, the PM-KISAN scheme has incorporated multiple modes of payment. Farmers can now receive their benefits directly in their bank accounts through various channels, including Aadhaar-based payments, DBT, and ECS, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible to benefit from the PM-KISAN scheme?
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Small and marginal farmers who own up to 2 hectares of cultivable land are eligible for the scheme.
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How often are the benefits disbursed under the PM-KISAN scheme?
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The financial assistance of Rs. 6000 per year is provided to eligible farmers in three equal installments of Rs. 2000 each.
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Can farmers update their information in the PM-KISAN database?
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Yes, farmers can update their information, including Aadhaar details and bank account information, through the PM-KISAN portal or mobile app.
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Is Aadhaar authentication mandatory for availing benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme?
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Yes, Aadhaar authentication is mandatory for beneficiaries to ensure transparency and prevent duplication in the distribution of benefits.
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How can farmers check the status of their PM-KISAN payments?
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Farmers can check the status of their payments through the PM-KISAN portal, mobile app, or by visiting the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
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Are farmers engaged in fisheries and animal husbandry sectors eligible for the PM-KISAN scheme?
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Yes, farmers engaged in fisheries and animal husbandry activities are now included in the beneficiary list of the PM-KISAN scheme.
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Can farmers register for the PM-KISAN scheme offline?
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While online self-registration is encouraged, farmers can also register for the scheme through the assistance of the nodal officers designated at the local level.
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How has the PM-KISAN mobile app benefitted farmers?
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The PM-KISAN mobile app has enabled farmers to register for the scheme, check payment status, and update their information conveniently from their smartphones.
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What is the mode of payment for PM-KISAN benefits?
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The benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme are disbursed directly to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through various payment modes, including Aadhaar-based payments and Electronic Clearing System (ECS).
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How has the PM-KISAN scheme contributed to the welfare of farmers in India?
- The PM-KISAN scheme has provided crucial financial support to farmers, enhancing their income security and improving their standard of living, thereby boosting the agricultural sector’s growth.
In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme has played a pivotal role in empowering farmers and ensuring their financial stability. With the latest updates and enhancements, the scheme continues to evolve to better serve the agricultural community in India. The government’s commitment to supporting farmers through initiatives like PM-KISAN reflects its dedication to the welfare of those who feed the nation.
