The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India to offer financial assistance to farmers and their families. The concept was originally introduced in Telangana under the name Rythu Bandhu, where direct monetary support was provided to eligible farmers. Inspired by its success, the Central Government expanded the idea nationwide. The official launch of the PM-KISAN scheme was announced by Piyush Goyal on 1st February 2019, during the presentation of the Interim Union Budget 2019.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme 20th Installment
The 20th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme was officially released on 2nd August 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi disbursed approximately ₹20,500 crore to around 9.7 crore eligible farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Each beneficiary received ₹2,000 as part of the scheme’s regular three-installment annual support. Although the release was initially expected in June or July 2025, it was slightly delayed due to administrative scheduling. To receive the amount, farmers were required to complete essential verifications such as e-KYC, Aadhaar-bank linkage, and land record authentication. Those who fulfilled these criteria received the installment directly into their bank accounts.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme
On 24th February 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the PM-KISAN scheme from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. The initiative aims to provide financial support of ₹6,000 annually to small and marginal farmers, distributed in three equal instalments directly into their bank accounts. The scheme is entirely funded by the Central Government, with an estimated annual outlay of ₹75,000 crore to ensure the welfare and economic stability of farmers across the country. Over 11 crore farmers have benefited from the scheme as of 2025. The scheme uses Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency and reduce leakages.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme Overview
The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme focuses on providing direct cash support to landholding farmers through a simplified and tech-enabled process. It improves farmers’ purchasing power and boosts agricultural investment. Additionally, it reduces dependence on informal credit and enhances financial inclusion. The table below presents key facts about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme.
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Overview of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme |
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| Aspect | Details |
| Scheme Name | PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme |
| Launch Date | 24th February 2019 |
| Ministry | Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare |
| Funding | 100% Central Government |
| Benefit Amount | ₹6,000/year in 3 installments of ₹2,000 |
| Payment Mode | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) |
| Target Beneficiaries | Small and marginal landholding farmers |
| Total Beneficiaries as of 2025 | Over 11 Crore Farmers |
| Official Website | pmkisan.gov.in |
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme Objectives
The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme was introduced to ensure income security for small farmers. It promotes financial independence and supports rural livelihoods. The objectives are directly linked to sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment of farmers.
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PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme Objectives |
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| Objective | Explanation |
| Income Support | Provide assured income to meet basic farm and household expenses |
| Financial Inclusion | Ensure every eligible farmer is linked with a formal banking system |
| Reduction in Rural Distress | Reduce dependence on loans and middlemen |
| Improved Agricultural Investment | Encourage farmers to invest in quality seeds, fertilizers, etc. |
Eligibility Criteria under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme
The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme has defined eligibility rules to ensure the benefit reaches the intended farmers. Small and marginal farmers with recorded land ownership are eligible, while institutional and income-tax-paying individuals are excluded.
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Eligibility Criteria under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme |
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| Eligible Farmers | Not Eligible |
| Small & marginal landholders | Institutional landholders |
| Land-owning farmer families with valid records | Serving/retired government employees above specific pay grades |
| Self-employed farmers with agricultural land | Income tax payers in previous assessment year |
| Farmers with Aadhaar-linked bank accounts | Doctors, engineers, CAs, and professionals |
Documents Required for Enrollment
To avail benefits under PM-KISAN, farmers must submit essential documents for identity verification and land ownership. These documents help ensure transparency and prevent misuse of the scheme. The registration process is both online and offline.
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory for identification)
- Land ownership proof (e.g., land records or Khasra-Khatauni)
- Bank account details with IFSC code
- Domicile certificate or other proof of residence (in some states)
PM-KISAN Mobile App and Online Services
The PM-KISAN mobile app and official portal offer a range of digital services for farmers. These include registration, beneficiary status tracking, and grievance redressal. The platform promotes accessibility and transparency in fund disbursal.
- Mobile App available on Google Play Store
- Online registration and e-KYC facility
- Check installment status and beneficiary list
- Submit corrections or grievances digitally
Benefits of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme
The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme is designed to provide predictable financial support throughout the year, helping farmers plan their agricultural cycles. The scheme also encourages digitization and promotes transparency in beneficiary identification.
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Benefits of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme |
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| Benefit Category | Details |
| Monetary Support | ₹6,000/year directly transferred to the farmer’s account |
| Financial Planning | Helps with input costs like seeds, irrigation, and labor |
| DBT Mechanism | Reduces corruption and ensures transparency |
| Digital Infrastructure | Promotes Aadhaar-based verification and JAM trinity |
Exclusion Categories under the PM-KISAN Scheme
Not all farmers are eligible to receive benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme. The government has laid down specific exclusion criteria to ensure the benefits reach truly needy and deserving small and marginal farmers. The following categories of beneficiaries are excluded from the scheme:
- Institutional Landholders: Any farmer who owns land registered under institutions or organizations is not eligible.
- Income Tax Payers: Individuals or families who paid income tax in the last assessment year are excluded from receiving PM-KISAN benefits.
- Professionals and High-Income Earners: Farmers or their family members holding the following positions or professions are not eligible:
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- Former and current Ministers/State Ministers
- Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs/MLCs)
- Mayors of municipal corporations and Chairpersons of District Panchayat
- Serving or retired government officers and employees (Central/State/PSUs)
- Professionals such as Doctors, Engineers, Lawyers, Chartered Accountants, and Architects registered with professional bodies and practicing their profession.
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- Retired Pensioners: Retired individuals receiving a monthly pension of ₹10,000 or more (excluding multi-tasking staff, Group D/class IV employees) are not eligible.
- Families with High Economic Status: Any farmer family with a higher economic status, based on local landholding data or socio-economic surveys, may be excluded even if not listed in the categories above.
Impact of PM-KISAN on Rural Economy and Agriculture
- PM-KISAN increases rural cash flow, boosting farmers’ purchasing power.
- Farmers use the funds to buy seeds, fertilizers, and tools, improving crop productivity.
- Dependence on informal moneylenders has reduced, lowering rural indebtedness.
- Scheme encourages financial inclusion through mandatory bank account usage.
- Increased rural spending stimulates local markets and village-level businesses.
- Instalment-based support helps farmers manage seasonal agricultural expenses.
- The assured income boosts farmer morale and encourages continued farming.
- Small and marginal farmers gain a financial cushion during crop failure or emergencies.
- The scheme supports the government’s mission of doubling farmers’ income.
Comparison with Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu Scheme
Rythu Bandhu, launched in Telangana, inspired the PM-KISAN scheme with a focus on direct support to farmers. However, there are key differences in structure, eligibility, and funding. While PM-KISAN is nationwide and centrally funded, Rythu Bandhu is state-specific.
- Rythu Bandhu provides ₹5,000 per acre per season
- PM-KISAN offers ₹6,000 per year to small/marginal farmers
- PM-KISAN is funded by the Centre; Rythu Bandhu by the state
- Rythu Bandhu is limited to landowners in Telangana
Success Stories and Case Studies
Numerous farmers across India have shared positive experiences with PM-KISAN. The scheme has helped them invest in better seeds, repay debts, or support their children’s education. These stories reflect the real-world impact of timely government support.
- Farmers reduced dependence on moneylenders
- Some invested in irrigation and soil improvement
- Many reported better crop yields after support
- Widows and elderly farmers used funds for daily needs
Criticism and Public Feedback
While PM-KISAN has received praise, it has also faced criticism over exclusions and inefficiencies. Some eligible farmers remain uncovered due to land documentation issues or digital illiteracy. Concerns about low financial support are also common.
- Delays in fund disbursal in some states
- Errors in beneficiary data and exclusions
- Amount seen as insufficient for actual input costs
- Limited awareness in remote areas
Challenges in Implementation of PM Kisan Scheme
The success of PM-KISAN depends on accurate land records, which vary across states. Identification and verification of genuine beneficiaries pose major hurdles. Technological barriers and coordination gaps also affect efficiency.
- Incomplete or outdated land records
- Errors in Aadhaar-bank linking
- Poor digital literacy among farmers
- State-level administrative delays
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme Advantages
The PM-KISAN scheme offers various advantages to the farmers. Few of the advantages have been listed below:
- Direct Income Support: Farmers get ₹6,000 annually in their bank accounts without intermediaries.
- Helps Small and Marginal Farmers: Especially benefits farmers with small landholdings.
- Timely Financial Assistance: Money is given in three instalments to match farming cycles.
- Nationwide Implementation: Applicable across all states, ensuring uniform benefits.
- Encourages Financial Inclusion: Promotes use of bank accounts and digital transactions.
- Reduces Loan Dependency: Lessens the need for farmers to rely on informal credit sources.
- Boosts Rural Economy: Increases farmers’ purchasing power, improving rural markets.
- Supports Agricultural Inputs: Helps cover basic farming expenses like seeds and fertilizers.
- Transparent System: DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) ensures minimal corruption or leakages.
- Government Commitment to Farmers: Reflects long-term focus on farmer welfare and income growth.
Government Reforms and Improvements in PM Kisan Scheme
The government has made several changes to streamline PM-KISAN operations. e-KYC has been made mandatory to avoid duplication and fraud. Integration with digital platforms has improved transparency and tracking.
- Mandatory e-KYC to ensure authenticity
- Improved portal interface and mobile app updates
- Regular review of exclusion lists
- Awareness drives for better outreach
Way Forward
To make PM-KISAN more effective, the focus should be on improving outreach, especially in remote and tribal regions. Strengthening land record digitization and simplifying the registration process can ensure better inclusion. Increasing the financial assistance amount and integrating it with other schemes will further enhance farmer welfare.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme FAQs
What is PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme?
It is a Central Sector Scheme providing ₹6,000/year as income support to landholding farmers.
How is PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme funded?
It is 100% centrally funded by the Government of India.
Who is eligible for PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme?
Small and marginal landholding farmers with valid land records and bank accounts.
What is the mode of benefit transfer under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme?
Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
Why is PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme important for UPSC?
It is relevant for topics in governance, welfare schemes, agriculture, economy, and financial inclusion.
