Tarakeswar, 20 June (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on saturday released the 20th instalment of financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme, transferring more than Rs 18,880 crore directly into the bank accounts of over 9.8 crore eligible farmers across the country.

The Prime Minister released the funds during a public programme held in Tarakeswar, West Bengal, where he also addressed farmers and beneficiaries. The transfer was made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring that the financial assistance reached farmers without intermediaries.

Under the PM-Kisan scheme, eligible farmer families receive financial assistance of Rs 6,000 annually in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The amount is credited directly to beneficiaries' bank accounts to support agricultural and household expenses.

Addressing the gathering on saturday, Prime Minister Modi said the government remains committed to the welfare and economic empowerment of farmers. He highlighted that the PM-Kisan initiative has strengthened the financial security of millions of farming families by providing timely and transparent assistance.

The Prime Minister also underlined the Centre's broader efforts to modernise Indian agriculture through increased investment in rural infrastructure, irrigation, digital technology, crop insurance, and farmer-centric reforms. He said these initiatives aim to enhance productivity, improve farmers' incomes, and promote sustainable agricultural development.

According to the government, the PM-Kisan scheme has emerged as one of the world's largest direct income support programmes for farmers. Since its launch in February 2019, the scheme has transferred more than Rs 3.9 lakh crore directly to farmers through multiple instalments.

The government said the latest disbursement reflects its continued focus on ensuring financial inclusion, transparency, and timely assistance to the country's farming community while strengthening the rural economy.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar