Gandhinagar: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-Kisan) has transferred more than ₹23,083 crore directly to over 69.25 lakh farmer families in Gujarat through 22 instalments, marking a major milestone in the state’s agricultural support system.
The scheme, which provides direct financial assistance to farmers, has emerged as a key economic safety net for the agricultural sector as Prime Minister Narendra Modi completes 12 years in office.
Nationwide Impact of PM-Kisan Scheme
On a national scale, the PM-Kisan scheme has benefited over 11 crore farmers across India, with total financial assistance exceeding ₹4.27 lakh crore. The initiative aims to strengthen the financial independence of farmers by providing regular income support directly into their bank accounts.
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Growth of PM-Kisan in Gujarat
The scheme was first launched in Gujarat with an initial disbursement of ₹572.21 crore benefiting more than 28.65 lakh farmers. Over time, coverage expanded significantly, reaching over 69.25 lakh farmer families by the 22nd instalment.
In the latest instalment alone, more than 50.54 lakh families received over ₹1,010 crore in direct financial assistance.
Farmers Highlight Benefits of Timely Financial Support
Gujarat Agriculture Minister Jitubhai Vaghani said the PM-Kisan scheme has acted as an “economic safety shield” for farmers.
He noted that small and marginal farmers now receive timely financial assistance for essential agricultural inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, reducing dependence on moneylenders during sowing seasons.
Farmers also shared their experiences:
- Govindbhai Patel (Dashela, Gandhinagar): Said the direct payments help him purchase seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection medicines on time, supporting cultivation of crops like groundnut and cotton.
- Rameshbhai Patel: Stated that the scheme helps manage small but essential farming expenses such as labour, diesel, and maintenance.
Strengthening Agriculture and Productivity
According to the release, the financial assistance has helped small and medium farmers in Gujarat access quality seeds on time, improving soil productivity and crop health.
The removal of landholding restrictions up to two hectares has ensured that a wider section of farmers can benefit equally from the scheme.
Transparency Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
A major feature of PM-Kisan is its 100% Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, which eliminates middlemen and ensures full transparency in fund distribution.
To strengthen accountability and prevent fraud, several digital verification measures have been introduced over time:
- From the 12th instalment: Mandatory land record verification (“land seeding”)
- From the 13th instalment: Aadhaar seeding with bank accounts made compulsory
- From the 15th instalment: Mandatory e-KYC requirement
These steps have helped ensure that benefits reach only genuine farmers.
A Key Pillar of Farmer Welfare
The PM-Kisan scheme continues to play a crucial role in supporting India’s agricultural economy by providing stable financial assistance, improving transparency, and strengthening rural livelihoods through direct government support.
