PM Kisan 18th Installment: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) is a groundbreaking initiative by the Government of India aimed at supporting small and marginal farmers. This scheme provides financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 per year to eligible farmers, distributed in three equal installments of Rs. 2,000 each. As we approach the 18th installment, scheduled for October 5, 2024, it’s important to understand the scheme’s details, eligibility criteria, and how to check your beneficiary status.
Overview of the Scheme
PM-KISAN was launched to provide income support to small and marginal farmers across India. The scheme is fully funded by the Central Government and aims to supplement the financial needs of farmers for various agricultural activities. The direct transfer of funds to farmers’ bank accounts ensures transparency and eliminates intermediaries.
Key Features:
- Annual financial support of Rs. 6,000
- Distributed in three installments of Rs. 2,000 each
- Direct transfer to farmers’ bank accounts
- 100% central government funded
Upcoming 18th Installment
The 18th installment of PM-KISAN is set to be released on October 5, 2024. This installment is expected to benefit approximately 9.5 crore landholding farmers across India, with the government allocating about twenty thousand crores of rupees for this purpose. This marks an increase from the previous 17th installment, which was released on June 18, 2024, and benefited 9.26 crore farmers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for PM-KISAN, farmers must meet the following criteria:
1. Indian citizenship
2. Ownership of up to two hectares of cultivated land
3. Small and marginal farmers in rural or urban areas
4. Class-4, group D, and multi-tasking staff are eligible
Exclusions:
- Institutional landowners
- Government employees (working or retired)
- Income tax payers
- Current and former members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
- Professionals such as doctors, engineers, chartered accountants, advocates, and architects
- Individuals or families receiving a pension of Rs. 10,000 or more after retirement
How to Check Beneficiary Status
Farmers can easily check their beneficiary status online by following these steps:
1. Visit the official website: https://pmkisan.gov.in/
2. Click on the “Know Your Status” option
3. Enter your registered mobile number
4. Click on “Get OTP”
5. Enter the OTP received on your mobile
6. View your beneficiary status
Checking the PM Kisan Beneficiary List
To view the complete beneficiary list for your area:
1. Visit https://pmkisan.gov.in/
2. Go to the “Beneficiary List” section
3. Select your state, district, sub-district, block, and village
4. Click on “Get Report”
5. Check for your name in the list
E-KYC Process
Completing the e-KYC (Know Your Customer) process is mandatory for receiving the PM-KISAN installments. Here’s how to complete your e-KYC:
1. Visit https://pmkisan.gov.in/
2. Click on the “e-KYC” option
3. Enter your Aadhaar number and click “Search”
4. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number
5. Submit the OTP to complete the e-KYC process
Importance of E-KYC
E-KYC is crucial for verifying the identity of beneficiaries and ensuring that the financial assistance reaches the intended recipients. It helps prevent fraud and ensures that only eligible farmers receive the benefits. Farmers must complete this process to continue receiving installments.
Impact and Benefits
The PM-KISAN scheme has had a significant impact on the lives of small and marginal farmers:
1. Income Support: The annual financial assistance helps farmers meet their basic needs and invest in agricultural activities.
2. Financial Inclusion: Direct transfers to bank accounts encourage farmers to engage with formal banking systems.
3. Agricultural Investment: Farmers can use the funds to purchase seeds, fertilizers, or invest in small equipment.
4. Rural Economic Boost: The regular influx of money into rural areas stimulates local economies.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana continues to be a crucial support system for millions of small and marginal farmers across India. As we approach the 18th installment in October 2024, it’s essential for eligible farmers to ensure their e-KYC is complete and their information is up to date.
This scheme not only provides financial assistance but also promotes financial inclusion and empowers farmers to make informed decisions about their agricultural practices. By supporting the backbone of India’s agricultural sector, PM-KISAN contributes to the overall rural development and economic growth of the country.
Farmers who believe they are eligible but are not yet enrolled should check with their local agricultural office or visit the official PM-KISAN website for more information on how to apply. As the scheme evolves, it continues to play a vital role in supporting India’s agricultural community and ensuring food security for the nation.