PM-KISAN Scheme Continued for Five More Years

The Union Cabinet's decision to extend the PM-KISAN scheme for another five years is a significant move aimed at boosting farmers' income and prosperity. This development is crucial for the UPSC aspirants, especially for GS Paper 3 which focuses on agriculture and economic development. Last Updated: 01-08-2026

Key Facts About PM-KISAN

• PM-KISAN is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2019 to provide assured income support to landholding farmer families with cultivable land.
• The Union Budget 2026-27 allocated ₹60,000 crore for PM-KISAN, reflecting continued support for farmers’ income security.
• The Union Cabinet has approved the scheme’s continuation from 2026-27 to 2030-31 with a total outlay of ₹3.15 lakh crore to support agricultural investment and strengthen farmers’ livelihoods.
• Under the scheme, each eligible farmer family receives ₹6,000 per year in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each.
• The amount is transferred directly into Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
• The scheme aims to increase farmers’ income, support the purchase of agricultural inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, improve crop health and productivity, and reduce dependence on informal credit.
• State governments identify eligible farmer households and maintain a database containing details such as name, age, category, Aadhaar number, bank account details, and mobile number.
• PM-KISAN is monitored through a multi-tier framework at the national, State, and district levels, with the national review mechanism chaired by the Cabinet Secretary.
• The PM-KISAN portal and mobile app support registration, verification, fund-transfer tracking, and e-KYC, improving transparency and accessibility.

India's Agricultural Support Framework

The extension of the PM-KISAN scheme underscores India's commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting rural economies. By aligning with national economic goals, the scheme contributes to increased agricultural output and improved farmer welfare, which are pivotal for India's strategic objectives. The scheme's impact is evident in the growth of cultivated areas and productivity, positioning India favorably in global agricultural rankings.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Focus on agriculture, economic development, and government schemes.
• Prelims Angle: Questions could focus on the scheme's launch year, financial allocations, and objectives.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes could include the impact of direct benefit transfers on rural economies and agricultural productivity.
• Essay Paper: Topics on rural development and government interventions in agriculture.

FAQ Section

• What is PM-KISAN? PM-KISAN is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2019 to provide income support to landholding farmer families with cultivable land.
• Why is PM-KISAN important? The scheme is crucial for enhancing farmers' income, supporting agricultural investments, and reducing reliance on informal credit, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
• What are the key features of PM-KISAN? Key features include direct benefit transfers of ₹6,000 per year to eligible farmers, Aadhaar-seeded bank account transfers, and a robust monitoring framework at multiple levels.