Krishak Bandhu Scheme: A Lifeline for Farmers in West Bengal

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme is a farmer welfare initiative launched by the Government of West Bengal to provide financial support to farmers and their families. Introduced in 2019, this scheme aims to ensure economic stability for farmers, especially during times of crisis. By offering financial assistance, death benefits, and crop insurance, it plays a vital role in uplifting the agricultural community of the state.

Objectives of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme

The primary goal of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme is to provide financial security to farmers and their families. Agriculture is often unpredictable due to natural calamities, crop failures, and fluctuating market prices. This scheme ensures that farmers receive monetary assistance to meet essential expenses, reducing their financial burden.

It also provides death benefits to the families of farmers who pass away, ensuring that their dependents are not left without support.

Key Features of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme

1. Financial Assistance
   Farmers owning agricultural land are provided annual financial support under the scheme.

   • Farmers with 1 acre or more land receive ₹10,000 per year, paid in two installments – ₹5,000 each for Rabi and Kharif seasons.

   • Farmers with less than 1 acre of land receive assistance proportionate to their landholding.

2. Death Benefit
   In case of a farmer’s death (aged between 18 to 60 years), their family receives a one-time financial grant of ₹2 lakh. This is a crucial support system for families who lose their primary breadwinner.

3. Eligibility

   • The applicant must be a resident of West Bengal.

   • Must be a farmer or recorded sharecropper.

   • Age should be between 18 to 60 years for death benefit eligibility.

4. Quick Disbursal
   The financial assistance and death benefits are directly transferred to the bank account of beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and timely payment.

Benefits of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme

The scheme has been a major relief for farmers in West Bengal. Here are some key benefits:

• Economic Stability: Farmers receive assured financial support, reducing their dependence on moneylenders.

• Support During Crop Failure: Even in case of crop loss due to natural calamities, financial aid helps farmers manage expenses.

• Family Security: The death benefit ensures that the farmer’s family can sustain themselves even after the loss of the earning member.

• Encourages Agriculture: With financial assurance, more farmers are encouraged to continue agricultural practices.

How to Apply for the Krishak Bandhu Scheme?

Farmers can apply for the Krishak Bandhu Scheme both online and offline.

Online Process

1. Visit the official website of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme.

2. Click on the "Krishak Bandhu Registration" option.

3. Fill in personal details, bank account information, and landholding details.

4. Upload necessary documents (Aadhaar, land documents, and bank passbook).

5. Submit the form and note the registration number for future reference.

Offline Process

Farmers can also visit their nearest agriculture office or the Block Development Office (BDO) to fill out the registration form and submit the required documents.

Conclusion

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme is a significant step towards improving the lives of farmers in West Bengal. By providing financial assistance, death benefits, and economic security, it acts as a strong safety net for the farming community. This initiative not only ensures farmers’ well-being but also boosts agricultural productivity in the state.

If you are a farmer in West Bengal, make sure you register under this scheme and avail of its benefits to secure your future and that of your family.