Gandhinagar/Kolkata, June 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday released the 23rd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme, transferring more than ₹18,880 crore directly into the bank accounts of 9.44 crore farmers across the country through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
The Prime Minister released the funds during a programme held at Tarkeshwar in Hooghly district of West Bengal, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening rural livelihoods.
Under the latest instalment, more than 51.28 lakh farmers in Gujarat received over ₹1,025 crore directly into their bank accounts without the involvement of intermediaries.
The PM-Kisan scheme, launched in 2019, provides eligible farmer families with annual financial assistance of ₹6,000, distributed in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 each.
To mark the occasion, a state-level “PM Kisan Utsav Diwas” programme was organised in Gandhinagar under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani and State Minister Ramesh Katara were also present. Beneficiary farmers received assistance under various agriculture and horticulture schemes, while farmers across the state watched the live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the Gujarat government remains focused on enhancing farmers’ income through sustainable agricultural development. He highlighted the state’s emphasis on water conservation, natural farming and modern agricultural practices.
“Even in low rainfall conditions, planned farming is possible with a scientific approach. Natural farming improves soil quality, maintains production capacity and helps farmers secure better market prices,” Patel said.
The Chief Minister also noted that the Narmada command area lake-filling limit has been expanded from 3 km to 7 km. In addition, infrastructure facilities such as farm fencing and storage units are being strengthened to support small and marginal farmers.
Patel further stated that water conservation initiatives, including the Amrit Sarovar programme and rainwater harvesting structures, are being implemented across districts to improve irrigation reliability and groundwater recharge.
Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani described PM-Kisan as a significant source of assured financial support for farmers. He said the scheme helps farmers meet agricultural input costs while ensuring transparency through direct fund transfers.
“The PM-Kisan scheme has eliminated intermediaries and strengthened financial support for farmers. It also contributes to rural economic stability through continued government welfare and procurement programmes,” Vaghani said.
The PM-Kisan scheme remains one of the world’s largest direct income support programmes for farmers and continues to play a key role in improving agricultural sustainability and rural prosperity across India.
