Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to release the 18th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) Yojana on October 5, 2024. Launched in 2018 by the NDA government, the scheme provides financial assistance to small and marginal farmers across India. Eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually, disbursed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 directly to their bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.

In June 2024, the government released the 17th installment, distributing around ₹20,000 crore to approximately 9.3 crore farmers. Now, with the festive season approaching, the 18th installment will soon be credited to beneficiaries.

How to Check Your Beneficiary Status

Farmers enrolled in the PM-Kisan scheme can easily check their beneficiary status online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the official PM-Kisan website and navigate to the "Beneficiary Status" section.
• Enter your Aadhaar number or account number.
• Click the "Get Data" button to view your status and payment details.
• Once submitted, the system will display the payment status, helping farmers track when their installment will be credited.

Eligibility Criteria for PM-Kisan Yojana

The scheme is designed for small and marginal farmers who own up to 2 hectares of cultivable land. These farmers are considered the primary beneficiaries, as the scheme aims to provide financial relief to those who need it most. Each eligible farmer receives ₹2,000 every four months to help cover agricultural and household expenses.

Completing eKYC for PM-Kisan Payments
To receive payments under the PM-Kisan Yojana, farmers must complete the electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) process. This step ensures that payments are accurately transferred to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. According to the PM-Kisan website, "eKYC is MANDATORY for PM-KISAN Registered Farmers." Farmers can choose from three methods to complete eKYC:

• OTP-Based eKYC: Farmers can complete this process via the PM-Kisan website by entering their Aadhaar number and registered mobile number. An OTP is sent to their mobile, which finalizes the process.
• Biometric-Based eKYC: For those unable to use the OTP method, biometric authentication is available at Common Service Centres (CSC) or State Seva Kendras. Farmers can verify their identity using fingerprint or iris scans.
• Face Authentication-Based eKYC: Available on the PM-Kisan mobile app, farmers can use facial recognition to complete the eKYC process.

Farmers are advised to complete the eKYC process promptly to ensure they receive the 18th installment without delays.

PM-Kisan Yojana: A Lifeline for Farmers

The PM-Kisan Yojana was launched to support landholding farmer families by providing them with direct financial assistance. With an annual payment of ₹6,000, the scheme helps reduce the financial burden on small and marginal farmers, allowing them to focus on agricultural activities and household needs.

Since its launch, the scheme has disbursed 17 installments, benefiting millions of farmers nationwide. The release of the 18th installment on October 5, 2024, continues to strengthen the farming community during a critical time.

Important Steps for Farmers
Farmers are advised to complete their eKYC and verify their beneficiary status before October 5 to avoid delays in receiving the upcoming payment. Those facing difficulties with OTP verification can visit their nearest Common Service Centre for biometric authentication.

The PM-Kisan scheme remains a crucial financial support system for India’s agricultural sector, ensuring direct and transparent payments to farmers. The upcoming 18th installment is expected to provide timely assistance as farmers prepare for the upcoming agricultural season.