The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) is a scheme launched by the Indian government in 1998 to provide credit for farmers for various agricultural activities. It aims to:
- Meet the short-term credit requirements for cultivation of crops.
- Cover post-harvest expenses.
- Provide for working capital for maintenance of farm assets and allied activities.
- Facilitate investment credit requirement for agriculture and allied activities.
Benefits of KCC:
- Simplified procedure: Easy application process with minimal documentation.
- Flexible credit limit: The credit limit is based on the landholding and crop pattern and can be increased annually.
- Lower interest rates: Concessional interest rates compared to other agricultural loans.
- Repayment flexibility: Repayment is aligned with the harvest cycle, reducing burden on farmers.
- Multiple uses: Can be used for various agricultural needs like buying seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and even for household expenses.
- Additional benefits: Some banks offer insurance cover and other benefits to KCC holders.
Eligibility for KCC:
- All individual farmers, joint borrowers (husband and wife), and tenant farmers cultivating land for at least one season are eligible.
- Minimum landholding is not mandatory.
Steps to Apply for KCC:
- Contact your nearest bank branch: All commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks, Cooperative Banks, and Microfinance Institutions issue KCCs.
- Fill the application form: The form is available at the bank branch or online.
- Submit required documents: These typically include landownership documents, proof of identity, and address proof.
- Bank verification: Bank officials will visit your landholding for verification.
- Card issuance: Upon approval, you will receive your KCC.
Links to Apply:
- State Bank of India: https://www.bankbazaar.com/sbi-kisan-credit-card.html
- ICICI Bank: https://www.icicibank.com/rural/loans/farmer-finance
- Bank of Baroda: https://www.bankofbaroda.in/business-banking/rural-and-agri/loans-and-advances/baroda-kisan-credit-card
- National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): https://www.nabard.org/news-article.aspx?id=25&cid=552&NID=220 nabard.org]
Additional Information:
- The validity of a KCC is five years, with the credit limit reviewed annually.
- Some banks offer RuPay KCCs, which can be used for cashless transactions.
- For more information on KCC, you can visit the NABARD website or contact your nearest bank branch.
I hope this information helps! If you have any further questions about the KCC scheme, feel free to ask.
Please note: The specific eligibility criteria, interest rates, and application procedures may vary slightly between banks. It is always best to check with your bank for the latest information.
