Government Schemes for Farmers
The Government of India provides several schemes to support farmers with financial assistance, crop insurance, irrigation facilities, and modern farming technology. These schemes aim to improve farmers’ income, reduce risks, and promote sustainable agriculture.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a direct income support scheme launched by the Government of India in 2019. It provides financial assistance to small and marginal farmers to help supplement their income and ensure financial stability in the agricultural sector.
Implementation and Funding
The scheme is entirely funded by the central government and implemented through states and union territories. Eligible beneficiaries receive ₹2,000 every four months directly into their bank accounts via the Direct Benefit Transfer system. The digital infrastructure enables real-time verification and reduces leakages in the disbursement process.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is the Government of India’s flagship crop insurance program. It provides farmers with affordable insurance coverage against crop loss due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases, ensuring income stability and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Implementation and Technology
The program is implemented by 18 empaneled insurance companies under supervision of the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers’ Welfare. Digital innovations—such as the PMFBY portal, mobile app, and satellite-based yield estimation using YES-TECH—enable faster enrollment, claim processing, and transparency. The initiative also integrates land records and bank details for direct benefit transfers.
Soil Health Card Scheme
The Soil Health Card Scheme is a flagship agricultural program launched by the Government of India in February 2015. It provides farmers with detailed soil analysis reports, helping them apply the right nutrients and fertilizers to improve soil fertility, productivity, and environmental sustainability. The initiative promotes balanced fertilizer use and long-term soil health management nationwide.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship irrigation and water-management program launched by the Government of India in 2015. It aims to ensure every farm has access to water (“Har Khet Ko Pani”) and to promote efficient use through technologies achieving “More Crop Per Drop.” The scheme integrates multiple ministries and funding channels to enhance irrigation coverage nationwide.
