In 2025, the Indian government continues to support small and marginal farmers through various schemes aimed at enhancing income, ensuring crop protection, promoting sustainable practices, and improving soil health. Here’s an overview of the top 5 schemes every small farmer should know:
1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
Overview: PM-KISAN is a direct income support scheme providing ₹6,000 annually to eligible farmer families holding cultivable land.
Key Updates for 2025:
- The 19th installment was released on 24th February 2025.
- eKYC is mandatory for all beneficiaries to receive payments.
- Farmers can check their status and update details on the official portal.
Eligibility:
- Small and marginal farmers with up to 2 hectares of cultivable land.
- Indian citizens.
- Aadhaar-linked bank account.
Registration: pmkisan.gov.in
2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Overview: PMFBY offers comprehensive crop insurance covering yield losses due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases
Key Features:
- Subsidized premium rates for farmers.
- Coverage for all food and oilseed crops.
- Easy claim process through Common Service Centers (CSCs) and banks.
Eligibility: All farmers, including sharecroppers and tenant farmers.
Registration: pmfby.gov.in
3. Soil Health Card Scheme
Overview: This scheme provides farmers with soil health cards every two years, offering recommendations on nutrient management and fertilizer application
Benefits:
- Improved soil fertility and crop productivity.
- Personalized fertilizer usage guidance.
- Access to soil testing labs and advisory services.
Coverage: As of February 2025, over 24.74 crore soil health cards have been issued.
Access: soilhealth.dac.gov.in
4. Micro Irrigation Subsidy under PMKSY
Overview: Under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), the government provides subsidies for the installation of micro-irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation.
Subsidy Details:
- Up to 90% subsidy for small and marginal farmers.
- Coverage up to 5 hectares per beneficiary.
- Additional benefits for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women farmers.
How to Apply: Farmers can apply through their respective State Agriculture Departments or visit the official PMKSY portal.
More Information: netafimindia.com/subsidy
5. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
Overview: The KCC scheme provides farmers with timely access to credit for crop production and allied activities at affordable interest rates.
Benefits:
- Access to short-term and medium-term credit.
- Concessional interest rates.
- Overdraft facility and insurance coverage.
Eligibility: All farmers engaged in agriculture or allied activities.
Application: Farmers can apply at any bank or cooperative society.
More Information: pmkisan.gov.in
📌 Quick Comparison Table
| Scheme | Key Benefit | Eligibility | Application Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| PM-KISAN | ₹6,000 annual income support | Small & marginal farmers | pmkisan.gov.in |
| PMFBY | Crop insurance coverage | All farmers | pmfby.gov.in |
| Soil Health Card Scheme | Soil nutrient recommendations | All farmers | soilhealth.dac.gov.in |
| Micro Irrigation Subsidy | Subsidy for drip/sprinkler systems | Small & marginal farmers | netafimindia.com/subsidy |
| KCC Scheme | Access to affordable credit | All farmers | pmkisan.gov.in |
✅ Tips for Small Farmers in 2025
- Stay Updated: Regularly check official portals for the latest information and deadlines.
- Documentation: Ensure all required documents (Aadhaar, bank account details, land records) are up-to-date.
- Local Support: Reach out to local agriculture offices or Common Service Centers for assistance with applications
