The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme is gearing up to release its 20th installment in June 2025, continuing its commitment to provide financial support to small and marginal farmers across India. This initiative, launched in February 2019, has become the world's largest Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, disbursing funds directly into the bank accounts of eligible farmers. The 20th installment follows the 19th, which was released in February 2025 and benefited over 9.8 crore farmers, including 2.4 crore women beneficiaries.

Eligibility Criteria

To receive the benefits of the PM-Kisan scheme, farmers must meet certain eligibility requirements. They must be Indian citizens who own cultivable land and are classified as small or marginal farmers. Certain categories of individuals are excluded from the scheme, including institutional landholders, those receiving monthly pensions of ₹10,000 or more, and individuals who filed income tax in the previous assessment year. Meeting these conditions is essential for farmers to receive the annual financial aid of ₹6,000, which is distributed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 every four months.

Mandatory e-KYC

Completing the e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) process is mandatory for all PM-Kisan registered farmers to ensure they receive the 20th installment. Farmers can complete their e-KYC through the OTP-based system available on the official PM-Kisan portal or by visiting a Common Service Centre (CSC) for biometric verification. Failure to complete e-KYC may result in delays or holds on the credit being deposited into their bank accounts.

Application Process

New farmers who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for the PM-Kisan scheme through both online and offline modes.

• Online Application:
  1. Visit the official PM-Kisan website: pmkisan.gov.in.
  2. Click on "New Farmer Registration."
  3. Select either "Rural Farmer Registration" or "Urban Farmer Registration."
  4. Enter your Aadhaar number and mobile number.
  5. Select your state, enter the captcha code, and click on "Get OTP."
  6. Enter the OTP to complete the registration process.
• Offline Application:
  • Farmers can visit their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) to complete the registration process.

Checking Beneficiary Status

Farmers can check their beneficiary status on the PM-Kisan portal by following these steps:

1. Visit the official PM-Kisan website: pmkisan.gov.in.
2. Click on "Beneficiary Status" under the "Farmers Corner" section.
3. Enter your Aadhaar number or registration number.
4. Click "Get Data" to view your current status.

Farmers can also view the village-wise beneficiary list on the PM-Kisan portal by selecting their State, District, Sub-district, Block, and Village under the "Beneficiary List" option.

Linking Aadhaar and Bank Account

To ensure seamless transfer of benefits, farmers must link their Aadhaar number to their bank accounts. This can be done by visiting the bank branch, using Aadhaar-enabled banking services, or through mobile banking apps. Linking Aadhaar helps avoid payment delays or rejections.

Helpline Numbers

For any assistance or queries, farmers can contact the PM-Kisan helpline numbers: 155261 or 011-24300606.

The PM-Kisan scheme has significantly contributed to supporting India's agricultural community by providing financial assistance to eligible farmers. As the 20th installment is approaching, it is crucial for farmers to complete the necessary formalities, such as e-KYC and Aadhaar linking, to ensure they receive the benefits of the scheme without any disruption.