The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme, introduced in 1998, has been a significant initiative in providing timely and adequate credit to farmers in India. The scheme is implemented by various agencies, including cooperative banks, regional rural banks, scheduled commercial banks and small finance banks, with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) acting as the nodal agency. The core objective of the KCC Scheme is to address the credit requirements of farmers and support them in meeting their agricultural and allied needs.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
• Scheme Launch Year: 1998
• Scheme Fund Allocated: The scheme does not have a fixed allocation of funds as it depends on the financial institution providing the credit.
• Type of Scheme: Central Government of India
• Website to apply: The application process varies depending on the issuing bank or financial institution.
• Scheme Type: National Scheme
• Covered States: The KCC Credit Card covers all states across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal.

Features of KCC Scheme

1. Loan Amount: Farmers can avail of loans of up to Rs. 3 lakhs, enabling them to meet their financial requirements.
2. Loan Repayment Period: The credit facility is available for a period of up to 3 years, allowing farmers to repay the loan over a reasonable timeframe.
3. Collateral Requirement: For loans up to Rs. 1.60 lakhs, no collateral is required, easing the burden of providing additional security.
4. Card Validity: The Kisan Credit Card Scheme is valid for 5 years, subject to an annual review to ensure continued eligibility and creditworthiness.
5. ATM-enabled RuPay Card: The KCC credit card comes with an ATM-enabled RuPay Card, enabling farmers to access their funds conveniently.
6. Insurance Coverage: The scheme provides insurance coverage of up to Rs. 50,000 for permanent disability or death and up to Rs. 25,000 for other risks, providing a safety net for unforeseen circumstances.
7. Built-in Cost Escalation: The PM Kisan Credit Card incorporates a provision for built-in cost escalation, considering the inflationary impact on agricultural activities.
8. Flexible Withdrawals: Farmers can make any number of withdrawals within the prescribed credit limit, facilitating their cash flow requirements.
9. Applicable Lending Rate to Farmers: 7% Rate of Interest 
10. Additional Interest Subvention: Farmers who repay their kisan credit card loan on time receive an additional interest subvention of 3% per annum which means the effective rate of interest for those will be 4 %. 

Benefits of Kisan Credit Card

1. Covers various activities: The credit can be availed for short-term credit requirement viz, cultivation of crops, post-harvest expenses, produce marketing loans, consumption requirements of households, maintenance of farm assets and activities allied to agriculture, investment credit for agriculture and allied activities.
2. Accessibility: The scheme ensures that farmers have access to timely and adequate credit, allowing them to meet their various agricultural and allied needs.
3. No Collateral Requirement: For loans up to Rs. 1.60 lakhs, farmers are relieved from the burden of providing collateral, making credit more accessible to a wider range of farmers.
4. Financial Security: The insurance coverage provided under the scheme offers financial security to farmers and their families in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
5. Simplified Banking: The KCC comes with an ATM-enabled RuPay Card, enabling farmers to withdraw funds conveniently and perform transactions at various locations.
6. Affordable Interest Rates: With a lending rate of 7% and interest subvention to lending institutions, the KCC Scheme offers credit at affordable rates to farmers.
7. Encouragement for Timely Repayment: The additional interest subvention of 3% per annum incentivizes farmers to repay their loans on time, promoting financial discipline and reducing the burden of interest.

Drawback of the Scheme

While the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme has proven to be beneficial for a majority of farmers, it may not be as useful for those who do not engage in agricultural activities, allied activities, non-farming activities, animal husbandry, or fisheries. The scheme primarily targets individuals involved in these sectors, which may limit its applicability to certain segments of the farming community.

How to Apply for the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme?

To apply for the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the website or branch of the bank or financial institution offering the KCC scheme.
• Step 2: Obtain the Kisan Credit Card apply form.
• Step 3: Fill in the required details accurately, providing the necessary information about your agricultural activities and financial needs in the kisan credit card kcc form.
• Step 4: Attach the required documents, such as proof of identity, proof of address and land documents.
• Step 5: Submit the completed application form along with the documents to the bank or financial institution.
• Step 6: The bank or financial institution will process the application and issue the Kisan Credit Card within 14 days.

For the Kisan credit card online apply, visit the Kisan credit card official website where you can complete the entire process online.

Kisan Credit Card Documents Required 

• Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc.)
• Proof of address (electricity bill, ration card, driving license, etc.)
• Land documents (ownership documents, tenancy agreement, lease agreement, etc.)
• Passport-size photographs
• Any other documents required by the bank or financial institution for the application process.

Conclusion

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme has played a vital role in providing farmers with accessible and affordable credit to meet their agricultural and allied needs. By simplifying the credit process, offering insurance coverage and providing an ATM-enabled RuPay Card, the scheme has significantly benefited the agricultural sector and improved the financial well-being of farmers across India. Kisan Credit Card Yojana primarily targets individuals engaged in agriculture-related activities, it remains an important tool for empowering farmers and supporting their livelihoods

Explore our article on the Soil Health Card Scheme to understand its benefits, how it works, and its impact on improving soil health for better farming.

The Production Linked Incentives Scheme for Food Processing Industry for Millets based production (PLISMBP) was launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) as a sub-component of the PLI Scheme for Food Processing Industry. The scheme aims to encourage the use of millets in Ready to Cook/Ready to Eat (RTC/RTE) products and promote their value addition and sales in the domestic and export markets. 

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Production Linked Incentives Scheme for Food Processing Industry for Millets based production (PLISMBP)
• Scheme Modified/Implemented: 2022
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs. 800 crores (Rs. 500 crore for incentives to Large Entity, Rs 300 crore for incentives to MSME)
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government Scheme

Features of PLISMBP Scheme

1. Costing:

• Outlay: Rs 800 crores
• Tenure: 2022-23 to 2026-27

2. Eligibility:

• Applicant: Proprietary Firm, Partnership Firm / Limited Liability Partnership / Company registered in India, Co-operatives, MSME
• Classification: MSME and Large Entity
• Minimum Sales for Eligibility for Large Entity: Rs 250 Crores
• Minimum Sales for Eligibility for MSME: Rs 2 Crores
• Udyam Registration Certificate is compulsory for MSMEs
• Minimum CAGR of 10% on sales of eligible products required for grant of incentive

3. Incentives:

• Large Entity: Up to Rs 100 crore of allocated outlay
• MSME: Up to Rs 40 crore of allocated outlay

4. Implemented through Project Management Agencies and monitored by Empowered Group of Secretaries:

In the Production Linked Incentives Scheme for Food Processing Industry for Millets-based production (PLISMBP), the base year plays a crucial role in calculating sales, incremental sales and the corresponding incentives. Let’s take a closer look at the base year allocation:

• For the first three years of the scheme (2022-23 to 2024-25), the base year for calculation purposes is set as 2020-21. This means that the sales, incremental sales and incentives payable during this period will be evaluated and compared against the sales achieved in the base year.
• As we move forward, the base year shifts for the fourth and fifth years. For the fourth year (2025-26), the base year considered will be 2022-23, and for the fifth year (2026-27), the base year will be 2023-24. This adjustment ensures that the scheme’s evaluation remains accurate and up to date as time progresses.

Latest News about the scheme

The scheme has gained attention in the news recently due to its focus on promoting millet-based products. Given 2023 being celebrated as the International Year of Millets (IYM), the scheme was introduced to encourage the use of millets in food products and increase their value addition. A global event and exhibition-cum-buyer-seller meet were organized in collaboration with APEDA to promote millets and attract domestic and international exporters.

Benefits

• Encourages the use of millets in Ready to Cook/Ready to Eat products
• Incentivizes value addition and sales of millet-based products in domestic and export markets
• Promotes the consumption of millet and their nutritional benefits
• Supports the growth of the food processing industry and generates employment opportunities

Drawback of the Scheme

The scheme may not be useful for farmers who primarily deal with primary processed millet commodities such as de-husked/polished millet grains, millet flours/atta, and colour-sorted millet grains as these products are excluded from the eligible food products list.

How to Apply?

To apply for the PLISMBP scheme, follow these steps

1. Visit the official website.
2. Fill the application
3. Attach the necessary documents.
4. Apply online.
5. Keep track of the status of your application through the provided application number.

Documents Required

• Applicant’s registration certificate (proprietary firm, partnership firm / LLP / company)
• Udyam Registration Certificate (for MSME applicants)
• Sales data for the base year and subsequent years
• Other relevant documents as specified

Conclusion

The Production Linked Incentives Scheme for Food Processing Industry for Millets-based production (PLISMBP) is a government initiative aimed at promoting millet-based products and increasing their value addition in the food processing industry. The scheme offers incentives to both MSMEs and large entities to encourage the use of millets in Ready to Cook/Ready to Eat (RTC/RTE) food products. By promoting the consumption of millet, the scheme contributes to the growth of the food processing sector and provides employment opportunities.

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi sah-Yojana (PMSSY) is a central sector scheme launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. The scheme aims to enhance the earnings and incomes of fishermen, fish vendors and micro and small enterprises engaged in the fisheries sector.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi sah-Yojana
• Scheme Modified/Implemented: 2023
• Scheme Fund Allocated: INR 6000 crores
• Type of Government Scheme: Central scheme
• Sponsored/Sector Scheme: Sector scheme
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying

Features of the Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi sah-Yojana offers the following key features:

The scheme was recently launched in the year 2023. In the budget for FY 2023-24, a total of INR 2248.77 crore has been allocated to the Department of Fisheries, marking a significant increase of 38.45% over the budget of FY 2022-23. Furthermore, India has achieved remarkable growth in the fisheries sector, becoming the 3rd largest fish producer, 2nd largest aquaculture producer, and 4th largest exporter of fish and fisheries products.

Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi sah-Yojana

• Enhances the earnings and incomes of fishermen, fish vendors and micro and small enterprises in the fisheries sector.
• Expands the domestic market for fish products.
• Provides incentives for job creation, especially for women in the sector.
• Facilitates access to institutional finance for capital investment and working capital.
• Reduces risks in aquaculture and fisheries operations.
• Promotes value chain efficiencies and establishes supply chains for fish product delivery.

Drawback

It is important to note that the scheme’s effectiveness may vary based on specific circumstances and the segment of the fishing community. Some potential drawbacks may include:

• The scheme may have limited impact if the fisherfolk belong to certain marginalized or remote communities that face challenges in accessing the benefits.
• The scheme’s success depends on proper implementation and coordination at various levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi sah-Yojana is a significant step towards boosting the earnings and incomes of fishermen, fish vendors and micro and small enterprises in the fisheries sector. With its focus on formalization, digital inclusion and incentives for value chain efficiencies, the scheme aims to expand the domestic market, create job opportunities for women and reduce risks in aquaculture and fisheries operations. The increase in budget allocation and India’s remarkable growth in the fisheries sector further highlight the government’s commitment to supporting and promoting this vital industry. However, it is crucial to ensure effective implementation and address any potential challenges to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach all segments of the fishing community.

The Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2018 to promote the use of agricultural machinery for in-situ management of crop residue. The core objective of the scheme is to address the problem of crop residue burning, which causes air pollution and environmental degradation. 

Objectives of the Scheme

• To address the problem of crop residue burning which leads to air pollution and environmental degradation.
• To create awareness about the effective utilization and management of crop residues.
• To promote management by farm machinery banks in Custom hiring service centres (CHSCs) to help the small and marginal farmers in crop residue management

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Modified: The scheme was implemented in 2018 and has not been modified since then.
• Scheme Fund Allocated: The government has allocated Rs. 1,151 crore for the scheme.
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Sponsored/Sector Scheme: Sector Scheme

Features

The following are the features of the Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue scheme:

Latest News about the scheme

As of May 2023, the government has provided subsidies to over 1 million farmers to purchase agricultural machinery for in-situ management of crop residue.

Benefits of ‘Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue’ scheme

The Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue scheme has the following benefits:

• Reduces air pollution caused by crop residue burning
• Improves soil health by enhancing organic content
• Reduces the time and cost of crop residue management
• Increases crop productivity by improving soil health

High Powered Committee (HPC) finalizes and periodically amends the specifications of the crop residue management implements/machines and provides help in the implementation. The scheme applies to farmers who cultivate crops in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, which are the states most affected by crop residue burning. The scheme is implemented by the central government and is available to farmers across the country. However, the scheme guidelines and eligibility criteria may differ from state to state depending on the state government’s policies.

Drawback

While the Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue scheme has several benefits, some drawbacks need to be taken into consideration. The following are some of the drawbacks of the scheme:

1. High capital investment: One of the main drawbacks of the scheme is that it requires a high capital investment to purchase agricultural machinery for in-situ management of crop residue. 
2. Limited reach: The scheme is currently only available in certain states of India, which limits its reach.
3. Limited awareness: Many farmers in India are not aware of the scheme and its benefits. This is especially true for farmers in remote areas who do not have access to information about the scheme. As a result, they may not be able to take advantage of the scheme even if they are eligible.
4. Lack of infrastructure: Another challenge is the lack of infrastructure to support the use of agricultural machinery for in-situ management of crop residue. This includes the availability of repair and maintenance services, as well as the availability of spare parts. Without adequate infrastructure, farmers may face difficulties in using the machinery effectively.

The Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue scheme is a crucial initiative by the Government of India to reduce air pollution caused by crop residue burning and improve soil health. The scheme provides financial assistance to farmers to purchase agricultural machinery for in-situ management of crop residue, which ultimately leads to increased crop productivity and reduced cost and time for farmers.

The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) was launched in 2013 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) with the aim of holistically conserving and restoring wetlands, including lakes. It focuses on enhancing water quality, improving biodiversity and promoting the integration of wetlands into developmental programs.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) Scheme
• Launch year: 2013
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Varies based on proposals from State Governments
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government
• Sponsored/Sector Scheme: Centrally Sponsored Scheme – Cost sharing basis

Features of National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) Scheme

1. Merging of National Wetlands Conservation Programme (NWCP) and National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP): The NPCA combines the efforts and resources of the NWCP and NLCP, consolidating their objectives and strategies. This integration allows for a more cohesive and comprehensive approach to wetland conservation and management.
2. Central assistance based on Integrated Management Plans: The NPCA provides central assistance to State Governments based on the proposals received for Integrated Management Plans. State Governments can submit their plans outlining the conservation, restoration and sustainable management measures for wetlands within their jurisdictions. The implementing agency, the Wetlands Division of MoEF&CC, reviews these proposals and provides financial and technical support to implement the approved plans.
3. 4-pronged approach: The NPCA adopts a multi-dimensional approach to achieve its goals: 

1. Wetland Brief Document – Developing baseline information : This involves gathering and analyzing essential data about wetlands, including their ecological characteristics, threats and conservation status. The baseline information serves as a foundation for effective planning and decision-making. 
2. Wetland Health Card – Rapid assessment of wetlands condition : The NPCA focuses on conducting quick assessments of wetland conditions using a standardized framework. The Wetland Health Card provides an overview of the ecological health of wetlands, helping to identify priority areas for conservation and restoration efforts. 
3. Wetlands Mitras – Stakeholder platforms to enable collaborative and participatory management: The scheme promotes the establishment of platforms that facilitate active engagement and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, NGOs and experts. These platforms, known as Wetlands Mitras, foster participatory management and knowledge exchange. 
4. Wetland Integrated Management Plan – Management planning addressing wetlands’ biodiversity and ecosystem services, values and threats: The NPCA emphasizes the development and implementation of integrated management plans for wetlands. These plans encompass strategies to conserve and restore wetlands’ biodiversity, and ecosystem services, and address the challenges and threats they face. The plans provide a roadmap for effective and sustainable wetland management.

Latest News about the Scheme

Under the NPCA Scheme, The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has sanctioned the assistance from the Central Government for conservation of 165 wetlands across the country, including 42 Ramsar sites.

Benefits

• Development of policy guidelines for the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands. 
• Promotion and strengthening of conservation efforts for prioritized wetlands. 
• Facilitation of a national inventory and information decision support system for wetland management. 
• Capacity building for wetland managers and stakeholders. 
• Strengthening of international commitments related to wetlands.

Drawback

The scheme’s effectiveness may vary depending on the specific circumstances and resources available in different states or regions.

Conclusion

The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) aims to ensure the holistic conservation and restoration of wetlands, lakes and their associated ecosystems. By promoting integrated management plans, capacity development and research, the scheme contributes to enhancing water quality, biodiversity and sustainable development in India.

MISHTI Scheme is a Central government scheme aimed at promoting the conservation and restoration of mangrove habitats along the shorelines of India. The scheme also aims to provide tangible economic benefits to local communities through sustainable use of these ecosystems.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Scheme Launch Year: 2023 (In Union Budget of FY 2023-24)
• Tenure: 5 years (from Financial Year 2023-24)
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Scheme Type: National Scheme
• Covered States: The MISHTI scheme is being implemented across 11 states and 2 Union Territories in India. The states covered under this initiative include West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

Aim of the Scheme

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes aims to facilitate mangrove plantations along the coastline and on salt pan lands, promoting the conservation and restoration of these valuable ecosystems. The MISHTI scheme provides financial and technical support to individuals, communities, NGOs and government agencies interested in mangrove plantations and associated livelihood activities.

MISHTI Scheme is implemented through a collaborative approach, utilizing the convergence of multiple sources of funding and resources. It leverages the strengths and provisions of different government schemes and initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Fund and other relevant sources.

MISHTI Scheme Features 

MISHTI scheme provides financial and technical assistance to individuals and communities for mangrove conservation, restoration and sustainable use. Some of the key features of the scheme are as follows:

1. Promotes development of 540 sq.KM mangroves across 11 states and 2 union territories: MISHTI focuses on the targeted development of approximately 540 square kilometers of mangrove habitats. These areas are spread across 11 states and 2 union territories in India, acknowledging the widespread presence and ecological significance of mangroves in these regions. By directing efforts towards specific locations, the scheme aims to maximize the impact of mangrove conservation and restoration activities.
2. Resources for implementation of MISHTI are through the convergence of other on-going schemes/programmes of Central and State Governments: MISHTI utilizes the concept of convergence, which involves pooling resources from various existing schemes and programs implemented by both the Central and State Governments. By harnessing the strengths and funding provisions of these schemes, MISHTI ensures a more efficient and coordinated approach to implementing its objectives. This convergence allows for better utilization of available resources and enhances the overall effectiveness and reach of the scheme.

The objectives of MISHTI scheme include promoting the sharing of best practices related to various aspects of mangrove conservation and plantation. These objectives focus on:

1. Plantation Techniques: Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise on effective and innovative methods of mangrove plantation. This includes sharing information on suitable species selection, site preparation, planting techniques and post-plantation care to ensure the successful establishment and growth of mangroves. 
2. Conservation Measures: Encouraging the dissemination of best practices in mangrove conservation. This involves sharing information on strategies to protect existing mangrove habitats, mitigate threats such as deforestation and pollution and promote sustainable management practices that ensure the long-term viability and health of mangrove ecosystems. 
3. Management Practices: Promoting the exchange of experiences and lessons learned in the management of mangrove forests. This includes sharing insights on sustainable harvesting practices, monitoring and assessment methods, adaptive management strategies, and community-based approaches to foster the active involvement of local stakeholders in mangrove conservation and management. 
4. Resources Mobilization through Public-Private Partnerships: Emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to mobilize resources for mangrove conservation and plantation efforts. This involves sharing successful models of public-private partnerships, highlighting how different stakeholders can contribute financially, technologically, and through expertise to support the objectives of MISHTI.

Benefits of MISHTI Scheme

Some of the key benefits of the MISHTI scheme are;

• Promotes conservation and restoration of mangrove habitats, which are critical for coastal ecosystem health and biodiversity
• Provides economic benefits to local communities through sustainable use of mangroves and associated ecosystems
• Supports livelihoods of coastal communities through a range of income-generating activities
• Enhances resilience of coastal communities to climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and storm surges

Drawback of the MISHTI Scheme

One potential drawback of MISHTI is that it may not be useful for farmers who do not have access to coastal areas with mangroves.

Conclusion

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI scheme) sustainably combines conservation and livelihoods. The scheme has the potential to make a significant impact in the coastal areas of India where mangroves are present.

Explore our article on the Soil Health Card Scheme to understand its benefits, how it works, and its impact on improving soil health for better farming.