SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Saturday attended the virtual programme marking the release of the 23rd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir.
The installment was released by Narendra Modi, who transferred financial assistance directly into the bank accounts of eligible farmers across the country through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
According to official figures, nearly ₹4,209.82 crore has been disbursed among 9.17 lakh beneficiaries in Jammu and Kashmir under the PM-KISAN scheme since its launch, providing financial support to the farming community.
The UT-level function at SKUAST-K was attended by Vice Chancellor Nazir Ahmad Ganai, senior scientists, Agriculture Production Department officials, progressive farmers, scholars and other stakeholders.
Speaking on the occasion, Javid Dar said PM-KISAN has emerged as a transformative initiative that provides assured financial support to farmers and strengthens the rural economy. He noted that timely release of installments helps farmers meet input costs, adopt improved farming practices and undertake allied agricultural activities more effectively.
Highlighting the challenges posed by climate change and environmental pressures, the Minister said agriculture remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and a primary source of livelihood for a large section of the population. He stressed the need to promote climate-resilient agriculture, efficient water management, crop diversification and the adoption of modern technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.
He said agriculture is increasingly becoming a platform for innovation, entrepreneurship and employment generation, adding that educated youth, including graduates, postgraduates and research scholars, are showing growing interest in agriculture and allied sectors through research and field-level interventions.
The Minister said the government is implementing several farmer-centric initiatives aimed at strengthening extension services, improving access to scientific knowledge and equipping farmers with modern technologies to tackle emerging challenges.
Reiterating the benefits of the PM-KISAN scheme, he said eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each, credited directly to their bank accounts through the DBT system to ensure transparency and efficiency.
On the occasion, two publications — “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” and “Farmer’s Scheme Guide” — were also released to create awareness among farmers about sustainable agricultural practices, government welfare schemes and support mechanisms aimed at enhancing farm productivity and income.