PM-KISAN scheme: Govt retrieves Rs 416 cr from ineligible beneficiaries; check who can claim funds

The central government has successfully retrieved ₹416 crore from individuals who were wrongly receiving benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme. These ineligible beneficiaries included income tax payees, employees of public sector undertakings (PSUs), government workers, and constitutional post holders who did not meet the scheme’s eligibility requirements. This recovery effort is part of the government’s initiative to ensure that only deserving farmers receive financial aid.

About the PM-KISAN Scheme

Launched in February 2019, the PM-KISAN scheme aims to provide financial support to small and marginal farmers. Under the scheme, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually in three equal instalments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). So far, the government has disbursed ₹3.68 lakh crore across 19 instalments.

To enhance transparency and prevent misuse, the government has made land seeding, Aadhaar-based payments, and eKYC mandatory for all beneficiaries. Farmers who fail to complete these verification steps will have their payments withheld until they comply with the requirements.

Technological Advancements for Better Implementation

To streamline the scheme and improve efficiency, several digital tools have been introduced:

• PM-KISAN Portal & Mobile App: Farmers can register, track payments, and complete eKYC online.
• Facial Authentication eKYC: Launched in June 2023, this feature allows farmers in remote areas to verify their identity using face scans.
• Kisan-eMitra AI Chatbot: Introduced in September 2023, this chatbot provides instant answers in local languages regarding payments, registration, and eligibility.
• Common Service Centres (CSCs): Over 5 lakh CSCs across India assist farmers with registration and verification.

Since November 15, 2023, over 1.5 crore new farmers have been added to the scheme through nationwide saturation drives conducted in partnership with state governments.

Who Can Apply for PM-KISAN Benefits?

The scheme is designed to provide direct financial support to landholding farmer families with cultivable land in their name. The key eligibility criteria include:

• The applicant must be a landholding farmer.
• Aadhaar card, proof of citizenship, land ownership documents, and bank account details are required.
• Benefits are transferred directly to farmers’ bank accounts via DBT.
• Farmers can also access short-term loans through the Kisan Credit Card.

By implementing strict verification measures, the government is ensuring that only genuine beneficiaries receive PM-KISAN funds, thereby strengthening the integrity and effectiveness of the scheme.

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