The Union Ministry of Agriculture has introduced a major update to the PM-Kisan direct cash transfer programme. Effective from January 1, 2025, new applicants must obtain a Digital Farmer ID, or Kisan Pehchaan Patra, linked to their land records to access benefits under the scheme. The move is aimed at ensuring transparency, preventing fraud, and streamlining welfare measures for genuine land-owning farmers.
What is the PM-Kisan Scheme?
Launched in February 2019, the PM-Kisan scheme provides ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments to eligible farmers. So far, the program has disbursed ₹3.46 lakh crore to over 9.5 million farmers through 18 installments, with the 19th installment scheduled for release next month.
Key Changes for New Beneficiaries
The new directive mandates that:
- Digital Farmer ID Requirement: All new applicants must register using the Kisan Pehchaan Patra, a unique digital identification linked to land records.
- Digitisation of Land Records: State governments are tasked with ensuring land records are up to date, including the prompt mutation of land ownership for inheritance cases.
- Streamlined Eligibility: The ID will serve as proof of land ownership, ensuring only genuine land-owning farmers qualify for benefits.
What is the Kisan Pehchaan Patra?
The Digital Farmer ID is a comprehensive identification system that contains:
- Farmer’s name and basic information.
- Details of landholdings.
- Types of crops grown.
- Additional data relevant to agricultural welfare programs.
Benefits of Digital Farmer IDs
The government aims to extend the Kisan Pehchaan Patra to approximately 110 million farmers, offering:
- Simplified access to welfare schemes, including direct cash transfers.
- Streamlined approval processes for agricultural loans.
- Enhanced accuracy in crop yield predictions.
- Reduced fraud in benefit distribution.
Guidance for Existing Beneficiaries
Farmers already registered under the PM-Kisan scheme will not need to reapply or obtain the Digital Farmer ID. However, all new registrations will strictly require compliance with the updated system.
Government’s Focus on Transparency
To facilitate smooth implementation, the Ministry of Agriculture has directed state revenue departments to expedite land mutation processes and upgrade land record systems. This ensures that applicants’ names are promptly updated in ownership records, resolving delays and disputes.
Impact on Farmers
The introduction of the Kisan Pehchaan Patra is expected to revolutionize how benefits are distributed under the PM-Kisan scheme. By leveraging technology, the government seeks to enhance accountability, reduce fraud, and provide faster access to welfare programs for farmers.