Kisan Card, also known as the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), is a government initiative in India aimed at providing farmers with timely and affordable credit. Launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and NABARD in 1998, the Kisan Card allows farmers to access short-term credit for agricultural and allied activities. The scheme helps farmers meet their financial needs for crop production, purchase of equipment, and other farming-related expenses.
Key Features of the Kisan Card:
- Loan Facility: Farmers can avail loans for agricultural purposes at low-interest rates.
- Flexible Credit Limits: The credit limit is determined based on the farmer’s landholding, cropping pattern, and repayment capacity.
- Insurance Coverage: The KCC scheme also includes crop insurance coverage to protect farmers against crop loss due to natural calamities.
- Ease of Use: The card functions like a debit card, allowing farmers to withdraw funds from ATMs or banks.
- Repayment Flexibility: Farmers can repay the loan after the harvest season, reducing financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Farmers engaged in crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, and related activities.
- Tenant farmers, oral lessees, and sharecroppers are also eligible.
How to Apply:
Farmers can apply for a Kisan Card through nationalized banks, rural banks, or cooperative societies. They need to submit basic documents such as land records, ID proof, and a duly filled application form.