PM-KISAN Scheme: 'Farmer Identification ID' Mandatory for New Beneficiaries

The central government has mandated the use of a 'Farmer Identification ID' for new applicants of the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi scheme, which provides financial assistance to farmers across India. This decision was taken by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, emphasizing that only those beneficiaries who obtain the identification ID will be registered under the scheme.

On average, the PM-KISAN scheme receives two lakh applications monthly. According to government officials, introducing the Farmer Identification ID will help verify whether the applicant owns agricultural land, thereby simplifying the application process.

A senior official stated that new applicants must register their names in the ‘Farmers Registry’ and provide the Farmer Identification ID while filling out the application form. This system, mandatory for new beneficiaries, has already been implemented in ten states starting January 1, 2025. The official added that the directive to enforce this requirement in other states has also been issued.

The central government views the identification ID as crucial for accurately identifying genuine farmers and extending more welfare schemes to them. The ID card will include details such as the farmer's name, land ownership, the type of crops grown, and the welfare schemes availed.