On Raksha Bandhan eve, the Prime Minister disbursed the 20th instalment of PM-KISAN and unveiled projects worth ₹2,200 crore in his parliamentary constituency.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today disbursed over ₹20,500 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 9.7 crore farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme during his visit to Varanasi. This 20th instalment, timed just ahead of Raksha Bandhan, aims to reinforce the government’s commitment to agricultural welfare and rural development.
From the grounds of Banouli village in the Sevapuri block, PM Modi addressed a large public gathering and reiterated that the government has prioritised farmer welfare over the past decade. Under the PM-KISAN scheme, each landholding farmer receives ₹6,000 annually in three equal instalments.
During the event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 52 development projects worth ₹2,183.45 crore. These projects span across sectors including infrastructure, education, health, tourism, cultural heritage, and urban development.
Focus on Uttar Pradesh Farmers
Uttar Pradesh alone will see over 2.3 crore farmers receive ₹4,600 crore, with ₹48 crore transferred to 2.21 lakh beneficiaries in Varanasi. So far, ₹90,000 crore has been disbursed to 2.5 crore farmers in UP under the scheme. In Varanasi alone, farmers have received ₹900 crore in total support, according to the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister emphasised that ₹3.75 lakh crore has been transferred to farmers under PM-KISAN so far, illustrating the Centre’s resolve to support the agriculture sector.
Launch of PM Dhan Dhanya Yojna
Adding to the list of initiatives, PM Modi announced a new scheme titled PM Dhan Dhanya Yojna, with an allocation of ₹24,000 crore. The scheme is designed to support small districts and marginal farmers, further extending the government’s agricultural outreach.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Push
PM Modi also launched a slew of road and rail infrastructure projects to improve regional connectivity. These include:
- Widening of the Varanasi–Bhadohi Road
- Upgrading the Chhitauni–Shool Tankeshwar Road
- Inauguration of a Railway Overbridge at Hardattpur to ease congestion on the Mohan Sarai–Adalpura route
These developments are expected to enhance access, reduce travel time, and support economic activities in and around Varanasi.
Addressing Operation Sindoor and National Security
This marked PM Modi’s first visit to Kashi following the success of Operation Sindoor, a mission tied to justice for victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. The Prime Minister invoked the blessings of Baba Vishwanath, crediting the mission’s success to the unity of 140 crore Indians.
He further stated that India’s self-reliance in defence was now evident globally, with upcoming BrahMos missile production and indigenous weapons from Uttar Pradesh enhancing national security.
Focus on Farmers’ Resilience
PM Modi acknowledged that weather remains a major risk for farmers. He said that under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, claims worth ₹1.75 lakh crore have been settled so far. Furthermore, under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, the government has engaged with over 1.25 crore farmers to promote innovation and sustainable practices.
CM Yogi’s Remarks
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, affirming that under both the Central and State governments, farmer welfare remains a central pillar. He also highlighted the significance of PM Modi’s visit in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.
