Prayagraj: Preparations are underway to transfer the 24th instalment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme directly into farmers’ accounts in Prayagraj ahead of Diwali.The wait for financial assistance from govt is about to end, as the amount will be credited directly to the accounts of small and marginal farmers.Deputy Director (Agriculture) Pawan Kumar Vishwakarma said that data has been compiled for 5,82,022 farmers in the district to ensure they receive the benefits of the 24th instalment. Under the new guidelines, only those farmers in the district who have completed their ‘Farmer Registry’ will be eligible for the benefit. Registration camps are currently being organised for farmers who have not yet completed this process.The number of farmers receiving Kisan Samman Nidhi is increasing every year. Vishwakarma said that this time, a sum exceeding Rs 117 crore will be transferred directly into the farmers’ accounts in the district. There has been an increase of 4,000 farmers compared to the previous (23rd) instalment. The scheme provides financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per year to one member of an eligible farmer’s family, distributed in three instalments.A few years ago, high farming costs were forcing many farmers in villages to give up agriculture. However, the situation has improved after the launch of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme by the double-engine govt. The financial aid under the scheme has given new hope to farmers. Those who earlier had to depend on moneylenders for buying seeds and fertilisers can now manage these expenses with the money directly credited to their accounts. Many are also using the funds for animal husbandry along with farming.Farmers are able to buy fertilisers and seeds on time and have started cultivating early-sowing crops. This has led to increased crop yields and has nearly doubled the income of these food providers.
