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The wait for the next installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme is growing among millions of Indian farmers. With 20 successful installments already credited, beneficiaries are now eagerly looking forward to the 21st installment, expected to be released in November 2025.

What Is the PM Kisan Scheme?

Launched in 2019, the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi is one of the world’s largest direct benefit transfer (DBT) programs. It was introduced during the Interim Budget by then Finance Minister Piyush Goyal and officially rolled out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme provides financial assistance of ₹6,000 per year to eligible farmers, credited in three equal installments of ₹2,000 every four months directly into their bank accounts.

The main goal of PM-Kisan is to support small and marginal farmers by providing them with a steady source of income to manage agricultural expenses, purchase seeds, and invest in essential farming equipment. Over time, it has become a critical pillar of India’s rural economy, ensuring a financial cushion for millions of farming families.

When Are the Installments Released?

Under the PM-Kisan scheme, the financial year is divided into three payment cycles:

• First Installment: April – July

• Second Installment: August – November

• Third Installment: December – March

Each installment is directly transferred to the farmers’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, ensuring transparency and eliminating middlemen from the process.

The 20th Installment: Record Reach and Impact

The 20th installment was released in August 2025, benefitting over 9.8 crore farmers across India. Among these, 2.4 crore were women farmers, highlighting the scheme’s inclusive approach. Although this installment was slightly delayed — it was expected in June — the government ensured that all verified beneficiaries received their dues.

So far, PM-Kisan has transferred thousands of crores directly into farmers’ accounts, strengthening rural financial security and reducing dependence on informal credit sources.

21st Installment Expected Soon

As per official sources, the 21st PM-Kisan installment was initially expected before Diwali 2025, but the government has not yet announced an official release date. However, ministry officials have hinted that the funds could be credited by mid to late November 2025.

Interestingly, for farmers in Jammu and Kashmir, the 21st installment has already been released as part of special assistance for flood-affected regions. On October 7, 2025, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan released ₹171 crore through video conferencing, benefitting 8.55 lakh farmers, including over 85,000 women farmers. So far, Jammu and Kashmir’s farmers have collectively received more than ₹4,052 crore under PM-Kisan.

Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?

To qualify for the PM-Kisan benefits, farmers must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. They must be Indian citizens.

2. They should own cultivable agricultural land in their name.

3. They should be small or marginal farmers (holding less than 2 hectares of land).

4. Their monthly pension should not exceed ₹10,000.

5. They should not be income tax payers.

The scheme specifically targets those who rely on agriculture as their primary source of livelihood, ensuring that government aid reaches the grassroots level.

How Farmers Can Check Their Payment Status

Farmers can easily track the status of their installment through the official PM-Kisan website (pmkisan.gov.in). By entering their registered mobile number or Aadhaar number, they can check whether their payment has been processed. The portal also provides updates on verification and account linkage issues.

Additionally, beneficiaries are advised to keep their Aadhaar, bank details, and land records updated in the portal to avoid payment delays.

A Lifeline for Rural India

The PM-Kisan scheme continues to serve as a financial backbone for India’s agrarian community. Beyond monetary assistance, it represents a direct connection between the government and the farming population, empowering rural households to become self-reliant and resilient against market uncertainties.

As farmers across India await the 21st installment, expectations are high that the government will soon announce the disbursement date. With Diwali celebrations still in the air, the next PM-Kisan transfer could add a much-needed spark of financial relief and festive cheer to millions of rural families.

Disclaimer: The information provided is based on publicly available government data and media reports. Beneficiaries should visit the official PM-Kisan website or contact their local agriculture office for the latest updates and verification details.