PM-KISAN Scheme: The Complete Guide to ₹6,000 Yearly Support for Farmers

For millions of small farmers across India, the PM-KISAN scheme has become a crucial source of financial support. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about this important agricultural initiative.
What is the PM-KISAN Scheme?
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Scheme launched on December 1, 2018, to provide financial assistance to landholding farmer families across the country.
Key Features:
- ₹6,000 annual financial support provided in three equal installments
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to beneficiaries' bank accounts
- No middlemen involved in the process
- Scheme fully funded by the Government of India
PM-KISAN Scheme Objectives
The primary goals of this initiative are:
- To supplement the financial needs of small and marginal farmers
- To protect farmers from falling into debt traps
- To ensure continued farming activities
- To support farm inputs procurement
Detailed Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Benefit?
- Small and marginal farmer families
- Families owning cultivable land up to 2 hectares
- All landholding farmers irrespective of crop grown
Exclusion Categories
The following individuals are not eligible for PM-KISAN benefits:
- Institutional landholders
- Current and former constitutional post holders
- Current and former Ministers/MPs/MLAs
- Retired pensioners drawing ₹10,000/month or more
- Income tax payees in last assessment year
- Professionals like doctors, engineers, lawyers, etc.
Complete Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the official PM-KISAN portal at pmkisan.gov.in
- Click on 'New Farmer Registration' under the Farmer's Corner
- Fill in personal details including Aadhaar number
- Enter bank account information
- Provide land details as per land records
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application and note the reference number
Offline Application Process
For farmers without internet access:
- Visit nearest Common Service Centre (CSC)
- Provide required documents to the operator
- The CSC operator will complete the registration
- You'll receive an application receipt
Required Documents
Farmers need to provide:
- Aadhaar card (mandatory)
- Land ownership documents
- Bank account details
- Identity proof (Voter ID, PAN card, etc.)
- Mobile number (for registration)
Payment Structure and Schedule
Installment | Period | Amount | Expected Transfer Month |
---|---|---|---|
1st | April - July | ₹2,000 | July |
2nd | August - November | ₹2,000 | November |
3rd | December - March | ₹2,000 | March |
How to Check Beneficiary Status
Farmers can verify their payment status through:
- Official PM-KISAN portal's 'Beneficiary Status' section
- Entering Aadhaar number, account number or mobile number
- Checking the status displayed on screen
Common Issues and Solutions
Payment Not Received
Possible reasons and solutions:
- Incorrect bank details: Update through 'Edit Farmer Details'
- Aadhaar mismatch: Verify with local agriculture office
- Land record discrepancy: Get records corrected at tehsil office
Name Missing in Beneficiary List
Steps to resolve:
- Wait 15-20 days after application
- Contact district agriculture officer
- Submit grievance through portal if needed
Important Government Notifications
Recent updates farmers should know:
- Aadhaar linking made mandatory for all beneficiaries
- Self-registration facility introduced for farmers
- Mobile app launched for easier access
Impact of PM-KISAN Scheme
Since implementation, the scheme has:
- Benefitted over 11 crore farmers nationwide
- Transferred more than ₹2.42 lakh crore to beneficiaries
- Improved rural consumption and farm investments
- Reduced dependence on money lenders
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tenant farmers apply?
No, only land-owning farmers are eligible currently.
Is there any age limit?
No age restrictions exist for eligible farmers.
How to change bank account details?
Through the 'Edit Farmer Details' option on the portal.
Important Links
- Official Website: pmkisan.gov.in
- Beneficiary Status: pmkisan.gov.in/beneficiarystatus
- New Registration: pmkisan.gov.in/NewFarmerReg.aspx
- Helpline: 155261 or 011-24300606
The PM-KISAN scheme represents a significant step in supporting India's agricultural community. By providing direct financial assistance, it helps small farmers meet their cultivation needs and improve their livelihoods. All eligible farmers should ensure they're registered to receive these benefits.