PM to Release 21st PM-KISAN Instalment on November 19; Direct Transfers Cross Rs 3.70 Lakh Crore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the 21st instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) on November 19, marking another major milestone for one of the world’s largest Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programmes. With this tranche, the total assistance transferred under the scheme will exceed Rs 3.70 lakh crore, benefiting more than 11 crore farmer families.

Launched in 2019, PM-KISAN provides Rs 6,000 annually to every eligible farmer family, paid in three equal instalments. The scheme prioritises transparency through Aadhaar-enabled verification, e-KYC, and direct bank transfers—ensuring benefits reach genuine cultivators without intermediaries. Over 25% of the beneficiaries are women farmers.

Digital Backbone Strengthens Delivery

The government has expanded PM-KISAN’s digital infrastructure to simplify access and boost transparency. Aadhaar-based OTP, biometric and face-authentication options now allow farmers to complete e-KYC easily, even from home. The PM-KISAN Mobile App offers services such as e-KYC updates, beneficiary status checks and registration.

A redesigned “Farmers Corner” on the portal pmkisan.gov.in enables farmers to verify their payment status through the “Know Your Status” feature. Registrations can be done online, at Common Service Centres or through doorstep Aadhaar-enabled bank account services offered by India Post Payments Bank.

AI Chatbot Enhances Grievance Redressal

To accelerate support, the government has rolled out Kisan-eMitra, an AI-powered chatbot that provides round-the-clock assistance in 11 regional languages. The system features automatic language and scheme detection, voice-based interaction, and a touch-free interface, making it easier for farmers to track payments, lodge grievances and seek information.

Farmer Registry to Streamline Welfare Access

The Agriculture Ministry has launched a nationwide Farmer Registry—an authenticated database designed to make access to social welfare benefits faster and more efficient. The registry is expected to eliminate repetitive verification processes and ensure smoother last-mile delivery.

A study by the International Food and Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) found that PM-KISAN has strengthened rural economic activity, improved farmers’ risk-taking capacity and supported investments in agricultural inputs, while also helping families meet essential expenses such as education and healthcare.

The government said these efforts reflect its commitment to making technology-driven, transparent and inclusive support systems central to India’s agricultural growth.