Access, Awareness and Adoption: A Study of PM-Kisan and Kisan Credit Card Among Davangere Farmers

Abstract

Financial inclusion has emerged as a core priority in India’s rural development agenda, aiming to ensure that farmers—often among the most financially vulnerable groups—gain equitable access to credit, subsidies, and insurance. This study examines the awareness, access, adoption, and challenges associated with the Pradhan MantriKisanSamman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) schemes among farmers in Davangere district, Karnataka, during 2023–24. A descriptive and analytical research design was employed, with primary data collected from 200 farmers through structured questionnaires and interviews, and secondary data sourced from the PM-KISAN portal, NABARD district reports, and Ministry of Agriculture publications. The study highlights minimal integration between direct benefit transfers like PM-KISAN and credit schemes such as KCC, limiting potential synergies.The paper recommends targeted KCC awareness campaigns via Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and panchayats, simplification of documentation through digital KYC, integration of PM-KISAN beneficiary lists with KCC eligibility, enhanced enrolment of women farmers via SHGs and cooperatives, and strengthening rural bank capacity to reduce processing delays. The conclusion emphasises that aligning operational frameworks of PM-KISAN and KCC, along with institutional strengthening and gender-inclusive outreach, can substantially enhance financial inclusion and agricultural growth in Davangere district.