Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-06-18

Background: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was launched on February 24, 2019, by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. It aims to provide income support to all landholding farmer families in the country. Current Context: The scheme ensures that eligible farmers receive Rs 6,000 annually, disbursed in three equal installments of Rs 2,000 directly into their bank accounts. This direct benefit transfer mechanism ensures transparency and efficiency. Impact: PM-KISAN has significantly improved the financial resilience of millions of small and marginal farmers, enabling them to invest in agricultural inputs, manage household expenses, and cope with unforeseen financial shocks.

Background: The PM-KISAN scheme is a flagship initiative by the Indian government to support the agricultural sector and enhance farmer livelihoods. It operates on a direct benefit transfer (DBT) model. Current Context: Recent reviews by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare have focused on the scheme's implementation status, the number of beneficiaries, and the effectiveness of its outreach programs. Efforts are underway to onboard more eligible farmers and ensure timely disbursement of installments, especially in remote areas. Impact: These reviews aim to identify any implementation gaps and strengthen the scheme's reach, ensuring that the intended financial benefits effectively reach the grassroots level, thereby contributing to rural economic development and farmer prosperity.