Introduction
On June 18, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a momentous journey to his Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi, marking his first visit to the holy city after assuming office for an unprecedented third consecutive term. This historic occasion witnessed a significant milestone in the government's unwavering commitment to the nation's farmers as Modi Ji released Rs 20,000 crore as part of the income support scheme, benefiting over 9.26 crore farmers across the country during the PM Kisan Samman Sammelan.
The PM also handed out certificates to over 30,000 self-help groups trained as Krishi Sakhis, who will work as para-extension workers. (Image: PTI)
The Release of Funds and its Impact
The release of the 17th installment under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme is a testament to the government's dedication to empowering the backbone of India's economy – its farmers. With a staggering amount of over Rs 20,000 crore being directly transferred to the bank accounts of eligible farmers, this initiative aims to provide much-needed financial assistance and support, alleviating the challenges faced by the agricultural community.
Addressing the Gathering in Varanasi
During the event, Prime Minister Modi expressed his profound reverence for the city of Varanasi, stating, "Maa Ganga has taken me in her lap, I have become part of Varanasi." He acknowledged the unwavering support of the people of Kashi (Varanasi), who have elected him as their representative for the third consecutive term, a rare feat in democratic nations worldwide.
Celebrating India's Democratic Spirit
Highlighting the strength and beauty of Indian democracy, PM Modi commended the record participation of over 64 crore voters in the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, making it the largest election in the world. He expressed particular appreciation for the involvement of over 31 crore women voters, nearly equivalent to the entire population of the United States of America, showcasing the global resonance of India's democratic prowess.
An Unprecedented Mandate
Reflecting on the historic mandate received by his government, the Prime Minister said, "The people of Kashi have not only elected an MP but also a Prime Minister for the third consecutive time. The mandate given by the people in this election is unprecedented, creating new historical benchmarks." He pointed out that it is rare for an elected government to return for a third consecutive term in democratic countries, a feat achieved by the people of India. The last time such a mandate was witnessed in India was 60 years ago, making this achievement truly remarkable and setting a new standard in the country's political landscape.
Agriculture: The Backbone of India's Growth
Emphasizing the pivotal role of agriculture in India's growth trajectory, PM Modi stated, "Agriculture will play a big role in making 21st century India the third largest economic power in the world." He acknowledged farmers, women, youth, and the poor as the strong pillars of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India), recognizing their crucial contributions to the nation's progress and prosperity.
Commitment to Farmers' Welfare
Reaffirming the government's commitment to the welfare of farmers, Modi Ji took to the microblogging site X (formerly Twitter), "Our government is committed to making the lives of our farmer brothers and sisters easier. It is a matter of pride to release the 17th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana from the holy land of Kashi." This statement underscores the government's determination to prioritize the well-being of the agricultural community and ensure their economic security.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as he attends the Kisan Samman Sammelan, in Varanasi, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (PTI Photo)
Recognition from Key Leaders
The event witnessed acknowledgements and praise from prominent leaders, including Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, further emphasizing the significance of the occasion and the government's efforts towards agricultural development.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Remarks
Addressing the gathering, Chouhan lauded PM Modi's unprecedented achievement, stating, "Becoming the Prime Minister for the third time with such a massive majority and receiving such a mandate from the people is unprecedented." He emphasized the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) belief that farmers are akin to God, and serving them is considered a form of worship. Chouhan highlighted the government's commitment to farmers, evident in the fact that the first file PM Modi signed after assuming office was related to the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, underscoring the priority given to the agricultural sector.
Yogi Adityanath's Commendation
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applauded the Prime Minister, saying, "PM Modi has arrived in Kashi. This marks the first instance in 62 years of independence that a politician in the country has been sworn in as Prime Minister for the third consecutive term." He acknowledged PM Modi's efforts in elevating India's global standing through his initiatives and praised the transformative phase India is witnessing under his leadership, particularly in the realm of agricultural development and empowerment.
Empowering Women Farmers
In addition to the financial assistance, the Prime Minister presented certificates to over 30,000 self-help groups trained as Krishi Sakhis, who will serve as para-extension workers. This initiative aims to empower women in the agriculture sector and enhance their contribution to the nation's agricultural growth, recognizing their vital role in ensuring food security and rural development.
Facilitating Access to the Scheme
The article also provides essential information on how farmers can register for the PM Kisan scheme, verify their beneficiary status, and check their account balance using their Aadhaar details. These steps ensure transparency and ease of access for the intended beneficiaries, enabling them to fully benefit from the government's support initiatives.
Streamlining the Registration Process
To benefit from the PM Kisan scheme, farmers are encouraged to ensure their documents are up-to-date by visiting the PM Kisan website. On the website's home page, users will find the 'New Farmer Registration' option, available in various regional languages to cater to diverse linguistic backgrounds. Farmers can choose either 'rural farmer registration' or 'urban farmer registration' and provide additional details such as Aadhaar, mobile number, and state to receive an One-Time Password (OTP) for confirming the registration.
Facilitating e-KYC
Beneath the new registration option on the homepage, there is an option to confirm electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) details. To proceed, users must enter their mobile number, and if their KYC information is already updated, a notification will appear on the screen, streamlining the verification process.
Verifying Beneficiary Status
Verifying the status of the registration process is also possible through the official PM Kisan website. To check their current standing, individuals need to provide specific information, including their state, district, block, sub-district, and village. Providing all these details is compulsory. After entering the required information, users can obtain a report reflecting their updated status, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Checking PM Kisan Balance Using Aadhaar
To verify the PM Kisan balance and installments received, beneficiaries can utilize their Aadhaar card details. Upon accessing the website, they should locate and click on the option labeled 'know your status.' Subsequently, the user must click on 'know your registration number.' After entering their Aadhaar number, an OTP will be sent to their registered mobile number. Next, either the OTP or the mobile number can be used, followed by completing the captcha request. After this step, clicking on 'get data' will display all the relevant information regarding the beneficiary's balance and installments received under the PM Kisan scheme, enabling them to stay informed and track their financial support.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Varanasi and the release of Rs 20,000 crore under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme mark a significant milestone in the government's efforts to support and uplift the agriculture sector. By acknowledging the pivotal role of farmers in India's growth trajectory and providing direct financial assistance, the government reinforces its commitment to the welfare of the nation's farming community.
This initiative not only provides immediate relief but also paves the way for a more prosperous and self-reliant agricultural sector, contributing to India's emergence as a global economic powerhouse. The comprehensive registration and verification processes outlined in the article further ensure transparency and ease of access for the intended beneficiaries, empowering them to fully benefit from the government's support initiatives. With a strong focus on empowering women in agriculture and recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders, this initiative represents a holistic approach to agricultural development, setting the stage for a sustainable and equitable future for India's farming community.
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