CM Kisan: State-Level Farmer Support Initiatives Complementing PM-Kisan

Introduction

Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy, supporting a vast rural population. Recognizing this, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme has provided ₹6,000 annually in three installments to small and marginal farmers nationwide. To further enhance farm income and reach unaddressed segments, various state governments have launched their own CM Kisan schemes. These initiatives offer additional support—especially for landless agricultural households and farmers not covered under the central scheme—bridging critical gaps.

This blog unpacks the CM Kisan approach across states, with a focused overview of Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. It delves into how these programs operate, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and broader impact on rural livelihoods.

State Variants of CM Kisan Scheme

Odisha’s CM Kisan Yojana

Introduced in September 2024, Odisha's CM Kisan Yojana replaced the previous KALIA scheme, targeting small, marginal, and landless farmers. Highlights include:

• Financial Support:

  • ₹4,000 annually for small and marginal farmers, paid in two installments (₹2,000 during Nuakhai festival and ₹2,000 on Akshaya Tritiya) 

  • ₹12,500 annually for landless households in three installments 

• Budget: ₹1,935 crore allocated in FY24–25 

• Registration & Tech:

  • Farmers must register via the official portal, complete e-KYC, and often register on Krushak Odisha platform first.

  • Helpline: 155333 

• Next Disbursal Dates:

  • ₹2,000 on April 30, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya) and August 28, 2025 (Nuakhai) 

Madhya Pradesh’s CM Kisan Kalyan Yojana

Launched in late 2023, Madhya Pradesh’s take includes:

• Annual ₹6,000 per farmer (₹2,000 × 3 installments), in addition to PM-Kisan 

• Fully DBT-based transfer; only for those already under PM-Kisan and meeting state residency criteria .

• Approximately ₹17,500 crore disbursed by March 2025 to over 83 lakh beneficiaries 

Comparative Analysis of CM Kisan Variants

Structural Overview

10 Key Advantages of CM Kisan Schemes

1. Inclusivity: Addresses farmers not covered by PM-Kisan, including landless households.

2. Additional Support: Boosts direct farm income significantly.

3. Timed Disbursement: Aligns payments with crucial agricultural cycles or festivals.

4. Digital Access & Transparency: Online applications, e-KYC, and DBT reduce leakages.

5. Boost to Crop Diversity: Faithful cash support aids risk diversification in farming.

6. Wealth Equalizer: Helps vulnerable farmer segments receive meaningful aid.

7. State Flexibility: Enables states to tailor schemes based on unique demographic needs.

8. Ease of Access: Helplines and Common Service Centers enhance reach in remote areas.

9. Higher Farmer Confidence: Additional income support fosters stronger trust in policy.

10. Catalyst for Rural Development: Sets a foundation for comprehensive agri upliftment.

Broader Implications and Final Thoughts

CM Kisan schemes underscore proactive federalism—where states complement central initiatives to broaden agricultural safety nets. Odisha’s inclusive approach continues to benefit small landholders and landless farmers alike. MP’s Kalyan Yojana reinforces benefits to those already gaining under central programs.

Going forward, the blend of tech integration, DBT clarity, and timely income support via targeted schemes marks a significant leap in India’s rural policy landscape. As data accumulates, potential exists to further refine eligibility, reduce coverage gaps, and scale such models to other states.

Ensuring speedy registration, robust awareness, and efficient payment tracking will be critical to maximizing the impact. Experts and policymakers must monitor outcomes closely to determine states where CM Kisan programs are truly transforming rural livelihoods.