The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Imphal West, observed PM-Kisan Diwas at its Lamphelpat campus today, marking the release of the 20th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojana.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, termed the occasion a major milestone in India’s agricultural development. Highlighting the scale of the initiative, he noted that over Rs. 20,500 crore is being transferred to the bank accounts of more than 9.7 crore farmers across the country under this phase. He praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming PM-KISAN into one of the world’s largest direct benefit transfer schemes since its launch in 2019.
Dr. Mishra emphasized that the scheme not only provides financial support but also acknowledges the vital contributions of farmers. He lauded its transparency and efficiency, pointing to features like SMS alerts, KYC verification, and land record validation as tools that ensure accountability and inclusiveness.
Prof. Ph. Ranjit Sharma, Director of Extension Education, CAU Imphal, encouraged farmers in the Northeast, including those linked with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), to fully utilize the benefits of the scheme. The event also featured the distribution of agricultural inputs to select beneficiaries and the live screening of the Prime Minister’s national address.
In Chandel district, a similar celebration was held at KVK Chandel, where 107 farmers participated. Smt. Promilata Monsang Wanglar, SDC/BO DC Chandel, served as Chief Guest, alongside S.P. Lovejoy Anal, District Agriculture Officer. Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK Chandel, presided over the function.
Farmers received micronutrient fertilizers and vegetable seeds. A live broadcast of the Prime Minister’s message was followed by a “Scientist & Farmers Interaction Programme,” fostering direct dialogue between experts and cultivators.
Launched in 2019, PM-KISAN provides Rs. 6,000 annually to eligible farmer families. With the current release, total disbursement under the scheme has surpassed Rs. 3.89 lakh crore, directly benefiting over 2.26 crore women farmers as well.
The event also drew attention to the Centre’s increasing focus on agriculture, with the budget for the sector rising from Rs. 21,933.50 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 1,27,202.29 crore in 2025-26. Innovations like the AI-powered “Kisan e-Mitra” chatbot, available in 11 regional languages, further underline efforts to bridge technological gaps and ensure inclusive agricultural growth.