For decades, India’s farmers — the nation’s true “Annadata” — have powered the country’s food security through their relentless work. Yet, many of them face financial insecurity in old age due to unpredictable monsoons, market fluctuations, and rising costs. To ensure a dignified retirement for these farmers, the Government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PMKMY) — a pension scheme designed to bring stability and financial protection to small and marginal farmers.
If you’re a farmer owning up to 2 hectares of cultivable land, this scheme could secure your future with an annual pension of ₹36,000.
What is Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)?
Launched in 2019, the PMKMY is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme backed by the Central Government. Its main aim is to provide a fixed income of ₹3,000 per month (₹36,000 per year) to small and marginal farmers once they reach the age of 60 years.
It ensures that farmers, after years of hard work, can live their retirement with self-respect, financial independence, and stability — free from the uncertainties of agriculture.
Key Benefit: ₹36,000 Annual Pension for Farmers
Under this scheme, every enrolled farmer will receive:
- ₹3,000 per month as a minimum assured pension after the age of 60.
- This equals ₹36,000 per year, directly credited to the beneficiary’s bank account.
- The pension is guaranteed, unaffected by market or crop conditions, and serves as a reliable financial cushion for healthcare, daily expenses, and emergencies.
How PMKMY Works: Shared Contributions for Lifelong Security
PMKMY operates on a shared contribution model, where both the farmer and the government contribute equally to the pension fund every month.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must meet the following:
- Age: Between 18 and 40 years.
- Landholding: Small or marginal farmer with up to 2 hectares of cultivable land.
- Exclusions:
- Farmers already covered under other government pension schemes.
- Institutional landowners or individuals holding constitutional posts.
Contribution Chart: Affordable Monthly Payments
The contribution amount depends on the farmer’s age at the time of joining:
| Age at Entry | Monthly Contribution (Farmer) | Government’s Matching Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 18 years | ₹55 | ₹55 |
| 25 years | ₹80 | ₹80 |
| 30 years | ₹110 | ₹110 |
| 40 years | ₹200 | ₹200 |
The contribution is auto-debited monthly from your bank account, making the process completely effortless.
Why Join Early?
The earlier you enroll, the smaller your monthly payment.
- A farmer joining at 18 years contributes around ₹27,720 over 42 years.
- A 40-year-old farmer contributes around ₹48,000 over 20 years — for the same pension benefits.
Early participation means lower investment and lifelong reward.
How to Apply for PMKMY
Farmers can apply online or through Common Service Centers (CSCs) in their area.
Option 1: Online Application
- Visit the official portal: https://maandhan.in/pmkmy
- Click on “New Registration”.
- Fill in details such as:
- Aadhaar Number
- Name, Date of Birth, and Mobile Number
- Bank Account (linked with Aadhaar)
- Landholding details
- Upload required documents (Aadhaar, Bank Passbook, Land Records).
- Complete e-KYC verification via OTP.
- Choose auto-debit authorization.
- Submit the form and note your reference number for future tracking.
Option 2: Apply Through CSC
If you prefer offline help, visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC).
The CSC operator will assist with registration, document upload, and biometric verification. A nominal service fee may apply.
Required Documents
Keep these documents ready before applying:
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Account Passbook (linked with Aadhaar)
- Land Ownership Proof
- Mobile Number (linked with Aadhaar)
What Happens in Case of Disability or Death?
The PMKMY ensures continued support even in unforeseen events:
- Permanent Disability (Before 60): The farmer receives the full pension from the date of disability. The spouse can continue contributing until the original retirement age.
- Death Before 60: The spouse may either:
- Continue the scheme by contributing till the farmer’s retirement age, or
- Exit the scheme and receive the total contributions made with interest.
Why You Should Enroll Now
- Dignified Retirement: No dependence on family in old age.
- Affordable Investment: Pay as little as ₹55 per month to secure lifelong income.
- Government-Guaranteed Scheme: 100% backed by the Government of India.
- Easy and Transparent Process: Online auto-debit with no paperwork hassle.
Secure Your Future, Enroll Today
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PMKMY) is not just another scheme — it’s a lifeline for India’s farming community, ensuring that the hands that feed the nation never struggle in old age.
If you are a small or marginal farmer, don’t wait. Apply today through maandhan.in or your nearest CSC and invest in a stable, self-reliant future.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Eligibility criteria, contribution rates, and benefits are subject to government updates. Always refer to the official PMKMY website (https://maandhan.in/pmkmy) for the latest and most accurate information.