National Farmers Day 2025: 5 government schemes boosting income and security for farmers

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme helps farmers access short-term credit at low interest rates for seeds, fertilisers, pesticides and other farm expenses. Instead of turning to moneylenders, farmers can borrow from banks at subsidised rates. With timely repayment, the effective interest can drop to around 2 to 4 per cent, sharply reducing the cost of cultivation. The scheme has become a lifeline for working capital, especially for small and marginal farmers.

Unpredictable weather is one of the biggest risks in farming. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) offers crop insurance cover against losses due to natural calamities such as floods, drought, hailstorms, cyclones and unseasonal rain. What makes the scheme attractive is the low premium:

2 per cent for kharif crops 1.5 per cent for rabi crops 5 per cent for horticulture crops

For this modest contribution, farmers get protection against heavy losses that could otherwise wipe out an entire season’s income.

For small and marginal farmers, old-age income security is often a major worry. The PM Kisan Maandhan Yojana addresses this gap. Farmers aged between 18 and 40 years can enrol by contributing between Rs 55 and Rs 200 per month, depending on age. After turning 60, they receive a guaranteed pension of Rs 3,000 per month, or Rs 36,000 a year. For many rural households, this steady income provides much-needed dignity and support in later years.

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme offers direct financial help to eligible farmer families with up to two hectares of cultivable land. Under this fully Centre-funded scheme, farmers receive Rs 6,000 a year in three equal instalments, credited straight to their bank accounts. Though modest, the amount helps meet everyday needs such as buying inputs, paying small dues or managing household expenses during lean months.

Water scarcity is fast becoming one of agriculture’s biggest challenges. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) promotes efficient irrigation through drip and sprinkler systems. By supporting micro-irrigation, the scheme helps farmers save water, improve yields and cut costs. The focus is on “more crop per drop”, encouraging sustainable farming practices that can boost productivity even in water-stressed regions.