Telangana Studies PM-KISAN Scheme for Rythu Bharosa Launch in 2025
The Telangana Government is studying the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) scheme, a central government initiative, to finalize the structure of its new Rythu Bharosa scheme. This state program is expected to launch during the Sankranti festivities in 2025. The PM-KISAN scheme provides financial aid to farmers facing economic difficulties during agricultural seasons and has specific guidelines to ensure the benefits reach only those in need.
A senior official from the state Agriculture Department explained that the Centre’s scheme is implemented strictly, preventing misuse by wealthy farmers. Telangana is reviewing these guidelines to adapt relevant aspects for the Rythu Bharosa scheme. The primary focus will be on ensuring that only genuine farmers, actively engaged in agricultural operations, qualify for the scheme.
Previously, the Rythu Bandhu program extended benefits to all farmers, including wealthy landowners and even those with non-agricultural land. This included farmers owning over 100 acres of land or properties with hillocks, water bodies, or road networks. However, the new Rythu Bharosa scheme will limit eligibility to cultivable landowners only.
Under the PM-KISAN scheme, certain categories of individuals are excluded from receiving benefits. These include ministers, MPs, MLAs, MLCs, mayors, and serving or retired central government employees. Others ineligible are state government employees, pensioners receiving Rs. 10,000 or more (except lower-grade employees), and professionals like doctors, engineers, lawyers, and architects who pay income tax.
Telangana is likely to adopt similar exclusion criteria for its scheme. Additionally, the state plans to provide benefits only to farmers owning no more than 10 acres of irrigated land, ensuring targeted assistance to those who truly need it.