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The PM-KISAN Scheme by the central government is a lifeline for millions of Indian farmers, offering ₹6,000 per year in direct income support. However, farmers in Odisha and Telangana enjoy significantly greater financial aid through state-run schemes that go beyond the benefits of PM-KISAN. These regional programs not only provide higher annual payouts, but also include insurance and seasonal support, transforming how farming households receive assistance.

Let’s take a closer look at these two standout schemes — Odisha’s KALIA Scheme and Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu (now Rythu Bharosa) — and how they outperform the national program in terms of benefits and coverage.

PM Kisan vs. State-Level Schemes: A Financial Comparison

The central government’s PM Kisan Samman Nidhi offers ₹6,000 per year, delivered in three equal installments of ₹2,000. While helpful, this amount may fall short in addressing the rising costs of seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural essentials.

In contrast, two state governments have launched higher-paying income support programs designed to provide tailored assistance to farmers based on land ownership and crop seasons.

Odisha’s KALIA Scheme: Multiple Layers of Support

Odisha’s KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme continues to offer sustained financial relief to small and marginal farmers. As of February 2025, the scheme’s 11th installment was released, benefiting both landholding and landless farmers.

How to Apply for KALIA (Online):

1. Visit krushak.odisha.gov.in

2. Click on the Apply Online link

3. Enter your Aadhaar number and click “Show”

4. Fill in the application form and upload required documents

5. Submit the form and save your application number for reference

Required Documents:

• Aadhaar Card

• Land Records (optional for landless applicants)

• Bank Passbook

• Ration Card / Income Certificate

• Passport-size Photograph

Farmers can also apply offline through their village panchayat or local agriculture department office.

Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu Becomes Rythu Bharosa

In January 2025, Telangana rebranded its Rythu Bandhu scheme to Rythu Bharosa, continuing its direct benefit transfer (DBT) model. Farmers now receive ₹12,000 per acre annually, supporting them during both kharif and rabi seasons.

How to Apply for Rythu Bharosa (Online):

1. Go to rythubharosa.telangana.gov.in

2. Click on Apply Online

3. Enter Aadhaar number, land details, and bank account information

4. Upload necessary documents and submit the form

This seamless digital process ensures that eligible farmers receive timely support without unnecessary paperwork.

What About Other States?

States like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra do not currently run major cash-transfer schemes beyond the PM Kisan program. Instead, they focus on subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural tools. However, farmer organizations have consistently urged both state and central governments to launch direct income support schemes similar to Odisha and Telangana’s models.

Final Thoughts

While PM-KISAN remains a crucial national welfare initiative, states like Odisha and Telangana are raising the bar by offering larger and more targeted financial assistance to their farmers. From ₹10,000 in Odisha’s KALIA scheme to ₹12,000 per acre under Telangana’s Rythu Bharosa, these programs demonstrate the impact of state-level innovation in rural welfare.

Farmers seeking higher support should explore state-specific schemes and apply through official portals. As agriculture continues to face challenges from inflation, climate change, and market instability, robust income support can be a game-changer for India’s rural economy.