On August 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the 20th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme from Varanasi, bringing a wave of financial relief to millions of farmers across India. This milestone instalment will disburse approximately ₹20,500 crore to over 9.7 crore farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency and eliminating intermediaries. Since its launch in 2019, the PM-KISAN scheme has transformed the lives of small and marginal farmers by providing crucial financial support, fostering rural development, and promoting agricultural prosperity. This blog post explores the significance of the 20th instalment, the scheme’s impact, technological advancements, and how it continues to empower Indian farmers.
What is the PM-KISAN Scheme?
The PM-KISAN scheme, launched in February 2019, is a central sector initiative designed to provide income support to small and marginal farmers (SMFs) across India. Under this scheme, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually, disbursed in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 directly into their Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts via DBT. This financial aid helps farmers procure essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment to ensure healthy crop yields and sustainable farming practices. By reducing dependency on moneylenders, the scheme protects farmers from financial distress and supports their continued engagement in agriculture.
The 20th instalment follows the success of the 19th instalment, released on February 24, 2025, in Bhagalpur, Bihar, where over 9.8 crore farmers received more than ₹22,000 crore. Since its inception, the scheme has disbursed over ₹3.69 lakh crore through 19 instalments, making it one of India’s most impactful agricultural welfare programs.
Objectives of PM-KISAN
The PM-KISAN scheme is driven by clear objectives aimed at uplifting small and marginal farmers:
- Financial Support: Supplement the income of farmers to meet agricultural expenses, ensuring proper crop health and adequate yields.
- Debt Relief: Protect farmers from exploitative moneylenders by providing timely financial assistance.
- Sustainability: Encourage farmers to continue farming by offering a reliable income source, fostering long-term agricultural growth.
For the 85% of Indian farmers who own less than two hectares of land, PM-KISAN acts as a financial lifeline, particularly during sowing and harvesting seasons when cash flow is limited. Beyond financial aid, the scheme instills a sense of dignity and recognition, affirming farmers as vital contributors to India’s growth.
Impact of PM-KISAN on Indian Farmers
Since its launch, the PM-KISAN scheme has made a profound impact on rural India. Here are some key achievements:
- Massive Financial Outreach: Over ₹3.69 lakh crore has been disbursed to farmers’ accounts through 19 instalments, providing consistent income support.
- Increased Beneficiary Base: The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in November 2023 added over 1 crore new farmers to the scheme, while an additional 25 lakh farmers were included in the first 100 days of the government formed in June 2024. This expansion increased the beneficiary count to 9.59 crore for the 18th instalment.
- State-Wise Reach: During the 18th instalment (August 2024–November 2024), Uttar Pradesh led with 2.25 crore beneficiaries, followed by Bihar with 75.81 lakh beneficiaries, showcasing the scheme’s extensive coverage.
- Empowering Rural Households: The financial aid has enabled farmers to invest in better seeds, modern equipment, and improved farming techniques. Many have also used the funds for education, healthcare, and family needs, enhancing overall quality of life.
The scheme’s direct benefit transfer model eliminates middlemen, ensuring that funds reach farmers promptly and transparently. This has built trust and strengthened the bond between the government and India’s farming community.
Technological Advancements in PM-KISAN
A robust digital infrastructure underpins the success of PM-KISAN, making it efficient, transparent, and farmer-friendly. Key technological advancements include:
- PM-KISAN Mobile App: Launched on February 24, 2020, the app simplifies self-registration, benefit tracking, and e-KYC processes. In 2023, a face authentication feature was introduced, allowing farmers in remote areas to complete e-KYC without OTPs or fingerprints.
- Common Service Centres (CSCs): Over 5 lakh CSCs across India assist farmers with registration and compliance, ensuring accessibility even in rural areas.
- AI Chatbot – Kisan eMitra: Launched in September 2023, this AI-powered chatbot, integrated with the PM-KISAN mobile app and supported by EKstep Foundation and Bhashini, provides instant query resolution in local languages. It addresses concerns related to payments, registration, and eligibility, enhancing farmer empowerment.
- Digital India BHASHINI: This initiative enables multilingual support, making the scheme accessible to farmers across India’s linguistic diversity.
- Grievance Redressal System: A robust system on the PM-KISAN portal ensures quick resolution of farmer queries, while state government officials can perform e-KYC for up to 500 farmers each, further streamlining the process.
These advancements leverage India’s digital ecosystem—comprising Jan Dhan accounts, Aadhaar, and mobile phones—to deliver a seamless experience. Farmers can register online, verify land records digitally, and receive funds directly, minimizing delays and corruption.
PM-KISAN and Operation Sindoor: A Day of Pride in Varanasi
On August 2, 2025, Varanasi will not only host the release of the 20th PM-KISAN instalment but also celebrate India’s resolute stance against terrorism through Operation Sindoor. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will address the success of this operation, launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Operation Sindoor showcased India’s indigenous defence capabilities, with precision strikes using BrahMos missiles, drones, and air defence systems targeting terrorist hideouts in Pakistan.
Modi described the operation as India’s “Rudra roop” (fierce form), emphasizing the nation’s unwavering commitment to countering terrorism. The operation not only avenged the attack but also demonstrated India’s technological prowess, leaving a lasting impact on global perceptions of the country’s defence capabilities. In Varanasi, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate development projects worth over ₹2,000 crore, reinforcing the government’s focus on holistic progress.
How PM-KISAN Empowers Farmers Beyond Finances
While the financial aid of ₹6,000 per year is critical, PM-KISAN’s impact extends beyond monetary support:
- Confidence to Innovate: Farmers are using the funds to experiment with new crops, adopt sustainable practices, and invest in technology, boosting productivity.
- Social Impact: The scheme supports family needs like education, healthcare, and weddings, reducing financial stress and improving rural livelihoods.
- Digital Empowerment: Tools like the PM-KISAN app and Kisan eMitra make farmers tech-savvy, connecting them to modern agricultural resources.
- Nationwide Unity: By reaching farmers in every state, PM-KISAN fosters a sense of inclusion and shared progress, aligning with the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Eligibility and Enrollment Requirements
To enroll in the PM-KISAN scheme, farmers must provide the following details:
- Farmer’s or spouse’s name and date of birth
- Bank account number and IFSC/MICR code
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar
- Aadhaar number
- Additional details as required for mandate registration
The India Post Payment Bank facilitates linking or updating mobile numbers with Aadhaar to complete e-KYC, ensuring accessibility for all eligible farmers.
20th Installment of PM-KISAN Scheme – Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Installment Number | 20th |
| Date of Release | 2nd August 2025 |
| Location | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh |
| Total Disbursement Amount | ₹20,500 crore |
| Number of Beneficiaries | Over 9.7 crore farmers |
| Transfer Mode | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts |
| Total Disbursed Since 2019 | ₹3.69 lakh crore (till 19th installment) |
| Scheme Launch | February 2019 |
| Annual Benefit per Farmer | ₹6,000 (in three ₹2,000 installments) |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs) |
| Previous Installment (19th) | Released on 24th February 2025 in Bhagalpur, Bihar – ₹22,000 crore disbursed |
Objectives of PM-KISAN Scheme
| Objective | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Income Support | To supplement farmers’ income and reduce dependence on informal loans |
| Crop Health Investment | Support procurement of seeds, fertilizers, and other essential inputs |
| Sustainability in Farming | Ensure continuity in farming activities among small and marginal farmers |
| Financial Security | Provide a safety net during sowing and harvest seasons |
Technological Innovations in PM-KISAN
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| PM-KISAN Mobile App | Launched in 2020; includes benefit tracking, self-registration, and face-authentication e-KYC |
| AI Chatbot – Kisan eMitra | Launched in 2023; multilingual support via BHASHINI, instant grievance redressal via PM-KISAN portal |
| Face Authentication for e-KYC | Introduced in 2023; enables farmers in remote areas to complete KYC without OTP or biometric |
| Common Service Centres (CSCs) | 5+ lakh CSCs help with registration and KYC |
| India Post Payment Bank (IPPB) | Facilitates Aadhaar-mobile number linking and KYC completion via postal network |
Recent Inclusion & Reach Statistics
| Update | Details |
|---|---|
| Saturation Drive (2023) | Over 1 crore new farmers added during Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra |
| Post-2024 Government Inclusion | 25 lakh additional farmers added within 100 days of the new government in June 2024 |
| 18th Installment State-wise Reach | UP: 2.25 crore+ farmers; Bihar: 75 lakh+ beneficiaries |
| Average Landholding Farmers (India) | Over 85% have <2 hectares of land – key beneficiaries of the scheme |
Mandatory Details Required for PM-KISAN Enrollment
| Required Information |
|---|
| Farmer’s / Spouse’s Name |
| Date of Birth |
| Bank Account Number & IFSC Code |
| Mobile Number |
| Aadhaar Number |
| Other Passbook Details |
PM Modi on Operation Sindoor – Key Statements (2nd August 2025)
| Context | Statements by PM Narendra Modi |
|---|---|
| Tribute to Terror Victims | Recalled the 26 lives lost in the Pahalgam terror attack |
| Launch of Operation Sindoor | Termed it a fierce response blessed by Mahadev – “India’s Rudra roop” |
| Target of Operation | Cross-border terror camps in Pakistan; drone and missile strikes successfully executed |
| Outcome | “Terrorist bases reduced to rubble; Pakistan’s air bases still in ICU” |
| Opposition Criticism | Accused Congress & SP of belittling Operation Sindoor; called out “tamasha” remarks |
| Message to Nation | “This is Naya Bharat – calm like Shiva, fierce like Kaal Bhairav when provoked” |
Other Key Announcements from Varanasi Visit
| Development Projects Inaugurated | Over ₹2,000 crore worth of projects launched across Varanasi and surrounding areas |
|---|---|
| Public Engagement | PM addressed a large public gathering in Varanasi, reiterating India’s strength and resilience |
Conclusion: A Lifeline for India’s Farmers
The PM-KISAN scheme has evolved into more than just a financial aid program—it’s a beacon of hope for millions of farmers. By delivering ₹20,500 crore in its 20th instalment on August 2, 2025, the scheme continues to empower small and marginal farmers, ensuring they can sustain their livelihoods with dignity. Its robust digital framework, coupled with innovations like the Kisan eMitra chatbot and face authentication, sets a global benchmark for transparent governance. As Prime Minister Modi releases this milestone instalment in Varanasi, alongside celebrating Operation Sindoor’s success, the event will mark a moment of pride for India’s farmers and the nation’s resolve. PM-KISAN is not just about money—it’s about building a stronger, self-reliant, and prosperous rural India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – PM-KISAN 20th Installment & Related Updates
1. What is the PM-KISAN scheme?
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Scheme launched in February 2019 to provide income support of ₹6,000 annually to landholding small and marginal farmers. The amount is released in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts.
2. When was the 20th installment of PM-KISAN released?
The 20th installment was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 2nd August 2025 from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
3. How much was disbursed in the 20th installment and to how many farmers?
An amount of ₹20,500 crore was disbursed to over 9.7 crore farmers across the country through DBT, ensuring transparency and avoiding middlemen.
4. How much total assistance has been provided under PM-KISAN so far?
As of the 20th installment, the government has disbursed ₹3.69 lakh crore through 19 previous installments to eligible farmers since 2019.
5. What are the objectives of the PM-KISAN scheme?
The scheme aims to:
- Augment the income of small and marginal farmers.
- Enable farmers to purchase essential agricultural inputs.
- Reduce dependency on informal credit or moneylenders.
- Provide a financial safety net during sowing and harvesting periods.
6. What are the eligibility criteria for farmers under PM-KISAN?
Eligible beneficiaries include:
- Landholding small and marginal farmers.
- Must possess a valid Aadhaar number.
- Should have bank account linked with Aadhaar.
- Land ownership records must be verified by state governments.
7. What documents are required to register under PM-KISAN?
To enroll, farmers must provide:
- Name and Date of Birth (Self or Spouse)
- Aadhaar Number
- Bank Account Number and IFSC/MICR code
- Mobile Number
- Land ownership records
- Passbook or other proof for mandate registration
8. How can farmers check their PM-KISAN payment status?
Farmers can:
- Visit the official PM-KISAN portal: pmkisan.gov.in
- Use the PM-KISAN Mobile App to track payment status.
- Visit Common Service Centres (CSCs) for assistance.
9. What technological features are available to help farmers with the scheme?
- PM-KISAN Mobile App for self-registration, e-KYC, and payment tracking.
- Face Authentication Feature (launched in 2023) for remote e-KYC.
- Over 5 lakh CSCs assist farmers in completing scheme formalities.
- Kisan eMitra AI Chatbot, launched in 2023, provides multilingual support and instant help.
10. What is the Kisan eMitra Chatbot?
Kisan eMitra is an AI-powered chatbot integrated into the PM-KISAN platform. It:
- Offers real-time answers to queries related to payments, registration, and eligibility.
- Supports multiple Indian languages via integration with Bhashini.
- Is accessible via the PM-KISAN mobile app.
11. What role do State Governments and India Post play in the scheme?
- State Governments verify land ownership and assist in e-KYC drives.
- India Post Payment Bank (IPPB) offers services to link Aadhaar with mobile and complete e-KYC, even in remote areas.
12. How has the scheme evolved since its inception?
- A saturation drive in 2023 added over 1 crore new farmers.
- In June 2024, an additional 25 lakh farmers were enrolled within 100 days of the new government.
- The digital infrastructure has been continuously upgraded for greater efficiency, transparency, and reach.
13. Which states have the highest number of PM-KISAN beneficiaries?
As of the 18th installment:
- Uttar Pradesh had the highest number: 2.25 crore+ beneficiaries.
- Bihar followed with around 75 lakh+ beneficiaries.
14. What is the significance of PM Modi’s address during the 20th installment release?
Along with releasing the PM-KISAN funds, PM Modi addressed the nation in Varanasi and highlighted:
- The success of Operation Sindoor (India’s military strike post-Pahalgam terror attack).
- India’s indigenous missile and drone capabilities.
- A reaffirmation of national security and unity in fighting terrorism.
15. What is Operation Sindoor and why was it mentioned?
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, was India’s coordinated military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The PM described it as a display of India’s “Rudra roop” (fierce form), showing strength and precision in striking terrorist bases inside Pakistan.
16. What other announcements were made during PM Modi’s Varanasi visit?
Apart from PM-KISAN disbursement:
- PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation of development projects worth over ₹2,000 crore in Varanasi and surrounding areas.