Introduction to PM-Kisan Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) is a government-backed initiative that provides financial assistance to small and marginal farmers across India. Launched in 2019, this scheme offers eligible farmers an annual financial benefit of ₹6,000, distributed in three equal installments.
However, to ensure the most needy farmers benefit from the program, the government has introduced a voluntary surrender option for those who may not require the aid. This article explores the benefits, eligibility, and process of voluntarily surrendering PM-Kisan benefits.
Why Opt for Voluntary Surrender of PM-Kisan Benefits?
1. Ethical Considerations
Farmers who have improved financial stability, additional sources of income, or larger land holdings may feel they no longer require the government’s monetary assistance. By surrendering their benefits, they allow the funds to be redirected to other needy farmers.
2. Compliance with Eligibility Criteria
Specific individuals may have previously received PM-Kisan benefits but later realized they no longer qualify due to financial or professional status changes. Voluntarily surrendering ensures they comply with the rules and avoid penalties.
3. Social Responsibility
By opting out of the scheme, financially stable farmers contribute to the welfare of truly deserving beneficiaries, helping ensure that public funds are used effectively.
Who Should Surrender Their PM-Kisan Benefits?
The government has outlined specific ineligible categories for PM-Kisan benefits. Beneficiaries who fall into any of these categories should voluntarily surrender their entitlements.
1. Taxpayers in the Previous Assessment Year
Farmers who have paid income tax in the last financial year are automatically disqualified from receiving PM-Kisan benefits. If you have filed your income tax return, you must voluntarily opt out of the scheme.
2. Professionals and Government Employees
Those working as doctors, engineers, lawyers, architects, or chartered accountants registered with professional bodies should not receive PM-Kisan assistance. Similarly, serving and retired government employees (excluding multi-tasking staff and Class IV employees) should opt-out.
3. High-Income Farmers
Farmers with extensive land holdings or multiple income sources should reconsider their eligibility and voluntarily withdraw from the scheme.
4. Institutional Landowners
The associated individuals should relinquish benefits if trusts, societies, or corporate entities own the land.
Process for Voluntarily Surrendering PM-Kisan Benefits
1. Visit the Official PM-Kisan Portal
To initiate the voluntary surrender process, visit the official PM-Kisan website and navigate to the “Voluntary Surrender” section.
2. Login with Aadhaar or PM-Kisan Credentials
You must log in using your Aadhaar number, registered mobile number, or PM-Kisan ID.
3. Select the “Voluntary Surrender” Option
Once logged in, find and select the option to voluntarily surrender benefits.
4. Confirm Personal and Landholding Details
You will be prompted to verify and confirm your landholding records, income status, and professional background.
5. Submit the Declaration Form
You will be able to fill out a self-declaration form confirming that you are surrendering the PM-Kisan benefits voluntarily.
6. Final Submission and Acknowledgment
After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation message and acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
Consequences of Not Surrendering When Ineligible
Failing to surrender benefits when ineligible can lead to serious repercussions, including:
1. Legal Action
The government has strict measures in place to identify ineligible beneficiaries. If found guilty, individuals may face legal consequences.
2. Refund of Received Amount
If an ineligible person has already received PM-Kisan benefits, they may be required to repay the entire amount with penalties.
3. Permanent Disqualification from Government Schemes
Beneficiaries who misused the scheme could face permanent disqualification from other government programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is voluntary surrender mandatory for ineligible farmers?
Yes, farmers no longer qualifying for PM-Kisan benefits must voluntarily opt out to comply with the scheme’s rules.
2. Will surrendering affect my eligibility for other government schemes?
Voluntary surrendering only affects PM-Kisan benefits and does not impact eligibility for other government programs.
3. Can surrendered benefits be reinstated later?
If your financial situation changes and you become eligible again, you can reapply through the official PM-Kisan portal.
4. How long does the surrender process take?
The process is instant upon online submission. However, official records may take a few weeks to update.
5. Is there a penalty for voluntary surrender?
No, there is no penalty for voluntarily surrendering PM-Kisan benefits. It is an ethical and responsible choice.
Conclusion
The PM-Kisan Yojana aims to uplift small and marginal farmers by providing much-needed financial assistance. However, if you are no longer eligible or require support, you must voluntarily surrender your benefits. By doing so, you contribute to the better allocation of government resources and ensure that those in genuine need receive the aid they deserve.
