Punjab kisan card distribution date
The Chief Minister Kissan Card Scheme, launched by the Punjab government, is a substantial initiative aimed at providing interest-free agricultural loans to farmers. With a total allocation of 9 billion PKR, this scheme seeks to support up to 500,000 farmers by offering them financial assistance to enhance their agricultural productivity. The registration for the scheme began on June 1, 2024, and is expected to continue through the 2024-25 period.
Objectives of the Scheme
The primary goals of the Chief Minister Kissan Card Scheme are:
- Provide Financial Relief: Offer interest-free loans to farmers for purchasing essential agricultural inputs.
- Boost Agricultural Productivity: Enable farmers to acquire fertilizers, seeds, and other necessary resources.
- Support Economic Growth: Contribute to the overall economic development of the agricultural sector in Punjab.
Key Components of the Scheme
The scheme is structured to ensure efficient distribution and utilization:
- Online Registration: Farmers must register online to be eligible for the Kissan Card.
- Eligibility Criteria: Farmers with land holdings of up to 12.5 acres are eligible. The mobile SIM used for registration must be registered against the farmer’s CNIC (PMD verified).
- Land Verification: Land records must be available in the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) system. Farmers will be verified through a digital interface between the registration database managed by PITB and PLRA records.
- Issuance of Kissan Card: Upon successful verification from NADRA, PMD, and eECIB, eligible farmers will receive the Chief Minister Kissan Card from the Bank of Punjab.
- Loan Distribution: Initially, loans will be distributed to 500,000 farmers on a first-come, first-served basis. Each farmer can receive a maximum loan of 150,000 PKR per season, with the funding limited to 30,000 PKR per acre for up to 5 acres.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Chief Minister Kissan Card Scheme, farmers must meet the following requirements:
- Land Holding: Up to 12.5 acres of agricultural land.
- Mobile and CNIC Verification: The mobile SIM must be registered against the farmer’s CNIC, and the CNIC must be verified through the Pakistan Mobile Database (PMD).
- Land Records: Land ownership must be recorded in the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) system.
Application Process
The application process for the Chief Minister Kissan Card is straightforward:
- Registration:
- Online Application: Farmers need to register online through the designated portal starting June 4, 2024.
- SMS Verification: Send your CNIC number via SMS to 8070. Ensure you have a mobile balance of 5 to 10 rupees to complete the process.
- Completion: Registration is free and must be completed before August 14, 2024, to be included in the scheme.
- Loan Utilization:
- Maximum Loan Amount: Each farmer can receive up to 150,000 PKR for 5 acres (30,000 PKR per acre).
- Usage: The loan can only be used for purchasing agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and seeds.
Distribution and Collection of Kissan Cards
The distribution of the Kissan Cards will begin on August 14, 2024. Farmers who have completed the registration process can collect their cards from any branch of the Bank of Punjab. To collect the card, present your CNIC at the bank.
Benefits of the Kissan Card
The Chief Minister Kissan Card offers several advantages to farmers:
- Interest-Free Loans: Farmers can access loans up to 150,000 PKR without any interest, making it easier to finance agricultural activities.
- Ease of Purchase: The card functions similarly to a debit card, simplifying the purchase of farming supplies.
- Financial Services Access: The card provides access to additional financial services through participating banks, improving farmers’ overall economic stability.
- Support for Agriculture: By facilitating access to essential agricultural inputs, the card aims to enhance crop yields and support the growth of Punjab’s agricultural sector.
Quick Reference Table
Feature | Details |
Scheme Name | Chief Minister Kissan Card |
Total Allocation | 9 billion PKR |
Registration Start Date | June 1, 2024 |
Registration End Date | August 14, 2024 |
Loan Amount per Farmer | Up to 150,000 PKR for up to 5 acres (30,000 PKR per acre) |
Eligibility | Landholding up to 12.5 acres, verified CNIC and mobile SIM |
Application Method | Online registration and SMS verification |
Distribution Start Date | August 14, 2024 |
Collection Location | Bank of Punjab branches |
Focal Person | Asif Hameed Qureshi |
Conclusion
The Chief Minister Kissan Card Scheme is a pivotal initiative aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape in Punjab by providing much-needed financial assistance to farmers. By offering interest-free loans and simplifying the process of acquiring essential agricultural inputs, the scheme supports the economic stability and productivity of the farming community. Farmers are encouraged to register online and collect their Kissan Cards to benefit from this valuable program. The scheme not only addresses immediate financial needs but also contributes to the long-term development of agriculture in the region.