Every year on December 23, National Farmers’ Day is celebrated across the country. This day is observed to honor the contributions of farmers, who are considered the backbone of Indian agriculture, and also commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India. The theme of Farmers’ Day 2025 highlights the role of FPOs (Farmer-Producer Organizations) in strengthening Indian agriculture globally, in line with the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Agriculture has made a significant contribution to India’s economy, and the government is continuously implementing new schemes to increase farmers’ income and make farming sustainable. On the occasion of Farmers’ Day, it is important to know about the major government schemes that are directly helping to improve the lives and farming practices of farmers.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana is a significant step towards providing financial support to farmers. Under this scheme, eligible farmer families receive assistance of Rs. 6,000 every year. This amount is sent directly to their bank accounts in three installments at four-month intervals, providing relief to farmers for their farming-related expenses.
Kisan Credit Card Scheme
The Kisan Credit Card scheme provides farmers with loans at affordable interest rates. Through this scheme, farmers can easily purchase seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural equipment. Under this scheme, farmers can get loans up to Rs. 3 lakh, which reduces their dependence on moneylenders.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana protects farmers from losses caused by natural calamities, pests, and diseases. If the crop is destroyed for any reason, this scheme provides insurance coverage. Farmers have to pay a very low premium, which reduces risk and increases confidence in farming.
Soil Health Card Scheme
The Soil Health Card scheme aims to improve soil quality. Under this scheme, farmers are provided with a soil test report, which includes information on nutrients and advice on the correct use of fertilizers. This helps maintain soil fertility and improves productivity. Prime Minister’s Agricultural Irrigation Scheme
The Prime Minister’s Agricultural Irrigation Scheme promotes the efficient and balanced use of water. Subsidies are provided for modern irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems, leading to water conservation and increased crop yields.
Prime Minister’s Kusum Scheme
The Prime Minister’s Kusum Scheme aims to connect farmers with solar energy. Under this scheme, subsidies are provided for the installation of solar pumps, reducing irrigation costs. Farmers can also earn additional income by selling surplus electricity.
Prime Minister’s Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana
The Prime Minister’s Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana is a social security scheme for small and marginal farmers. Farmers enrolled in this scheme receive a monthly pension after the age of 60, providing financial security in their old age.
e-National Agriculture Market
The e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a digital platform that connects markets across the country. This facilitates online trading for farmers, enabling them to receive better and more transparent prices for their produce.
Agricultural Infrastructure Fund Scheme: The Agricultural Infrastructure Fund Scheme promotes the development of modern infrastructure in the agricultural sector. Under this scheme, loans are provided at low-interest rates for facilities such as warehouses, cold storage, and packaging units, reducing crop losses and ensuring better returns for farmers.