The PM-KISAN scheme, initiated in February 2019, provides financial aid of Rs 6,000 per year in three equal installments to land-holding farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This farmer-centric approach ensures transparent and direct fund transfer to their bank accounts, eliminating intermediaries. Over Rs 2.80 lakh Cr has been disbursed to 11 Cr farmers, prioritizing transparency and efficiency in beneficiary registration and verification.
The scheme boasts a robust grievance redressal system, allowing farmers to address concerns via the PM-KISAN portal, a 24×7 IVRS facility, and the Public Grievances portal. The introduction of Kisan e-Mitra (AI Chatbot) supports farmers by resolving queries in multiple languages, mitigating technological barriers.
Initially accessible in five languages, Kisan e-Mitra simplifies interactions in English, Hindi, Odiya, Tamil, and Bangla. The PM-KISAN mobile app employs face authentication-based e-KYC, a pioneering feature among government benefit schemes. This user-friendly app allows farmers to complete their eKYC remotely, eliminating the need for biometric-based eKYC or mandatory mobile linking with Aadhaar. The app also enables farmers to assist neighbors with e-KYC and permits government officials to conduct e-KYC for up to 500 farmers.
Since its launch, around 20 lakh farmers have completed their e-KYC through this mobile app. Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, presented this information in a written Lok Sabha response, emphasizing the scheme’s evolution and technological advancements benefiting farmers across the nation.