Hazaribagh: Farmers across Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district are beaming with joy following the recent release of the 22nd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the funds from Guwahati, facilitating a massive transfer of ₹18,640 crore via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to approximately 9.32 crore farmers nationwide.
A Shield Against Agricultural Uncertainty
For the small and marginal farmers of Hazaribagh, this financial aid serves as a vital safety net against the unpredictable nature of weather and market fluctuations. Local growers, who cultivate a diverse range of produce—including pumpkins, bitter gourds, cucumbers, and watermelons—highlighted that the funds arrive at a critical time for seasonal preparations.
The cultivation of these crops requires significant upfront investment in:
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High-quality seeds
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Fertilizers
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Essential pesticides
From Dependency to Independence
The most significant impact of the scheme is the newfound independence it provides. Many beneficiaries noted that they previously had to rely on loans or external assistance to begin their farming cycles.
Gopi Rana, a local beneficiary, confirmed the successful credit of the amount to his account, while fellow farmer Ashok Kumar Mehta described the scheme as a “boon” for his family. “The direct deposit system ensures we get the help we need without middlemen. We use it immediately for seeds and fertilizers,” Mehta added.
Financial Relief and Timely Support
Economically, the scheme has relieved the burden of debt for many. Farmer Shyam Prasad Mehta remarked that the assistance specifically helps in managing the costs of pesticides, which are often a major expense. The consensus among the Hazaribagh farming community is that the timely nature of these credits—landing in accounts exactly when agricultural preparations begin—is the best feature of the initiative.
Expressing their gratitude to the Prime Minister, the farmers noted that these funds are not just a subsidy, but a pillar of support that resolves numerous daily hardships in the field.
