Krishak Bandhu: Assured Income and Death Benefit Scheme

1. Introduction

The West Bengal Government has introduced the Krishak Bandhu Scheme with the aim of providing support and financial assistance to farmers in the state. This scheme is designed to improve the financial condition of farmers and provide them with a sense of security. Through the Krishak Bandhu Scheme, farmers can benefit from two main components: the Assured Income Scheme and the Death Benefit Scheme.

The Assured Income Scheme focuses on providing farmers with a stable and assured income to support their agricultural activities and meet their basic needs. On the other hand, the Death Benefit Scheme aims to offer financial support to the families of farmers in the unfortunate event of their death.

Under the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme, farmers receive financial aid to ensure a stable income. The scheme is open to all farmers in West Bengal, including Bhagchasi (Sharecroppers). The financial assistance provided varies based on the size of the land owned by the farmer. Farmers with one or more acres of cultivable land receive Rs. 5,000 per year, disbursed in two installments. The first installment of Rs. 2,500 is given at the beginning of the Kharif season, which is the monsoon crop season, and the second installment of Rs. 2,500 is given at the beginning of the Rabi season, which is the winter crop season.

The Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme offers financial assistance to the families of farmers in the unfortunate event of their death. The scheme provides a one-time grant of Rs. 2 lakh to the family members or nominees of the deceased farmer. This financial assistance aims to provide some relief and support to the affected families during difficult times.

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme is a significant initiative taken by the West Bengal Government to uplift farmers and address the challenges they face. It not only provides financial aid but also aims to improve the overall well-being and livelihoods of farmers in the state.

Farmers in West Bengal are encouraged to stay updated on the latest information and guidelines regarding the Krishak Bandhu Scheme by regularly visiting the official website of the Department of Agriculture, West Bengal. This will ensure that they have access to accurate and up-to-date information about the scheme’s application process, eligibility criteria, and other important details.

Overall, the Krishak Bandhu Scheme is a step towards empowering farmers in West Bengal and recognizing their invaluable contribution to the agricultural sector. By providing them with financial assistance and support, the scheme aims to improve their livelihoods and create a more sustainable and prosperous farming community in the state.

2. Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme

The Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme is a key component of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme launched by the West Bengal Government. This scheme aims to provide financial assistance and a stable income to farmers in the state. Through the Assured Income Scheme, farmers can receive support to sustain their agricultural activities and improve their livelihoods. Here are the details of the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme:

Financial Assistance for Farmers:

Under the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme, farmers in West Bengal are eligible to receive financial assistance to ensure a stable income. The scheme caters to all farmers in the state, including Bhagchasi (Sharecroppers), and the financial aid is based on the size of their cultivable land. The following points provide an overview of the financial assistance provided:

  1. Assistance Amount: Farmers with one or more acres of land receive Rs. 5,000 per year, while those with less than one acre receive a minimum of Rs. 4,000 per year on a pro-rata basis.
  2. Disbursement: The financial assistance is provided in two equal installments during the Kharif and Rabi seasons.
    • Kharif Season: The first installment of Rs. 2,500 is disbursed at the beginning of the Kharif season. This season corresponds to the monsoon crop season, which usually starts around June and extends till September.
    • Rabi Season: The second installment of Rs. 2,500 is given at the beginning of the Rabi season. The Rabi season refers to the winter crop season, typically starting in October and extending till March.
  3. Mode of Payment: The financial aid is directly transferred to the bank accounts of the eligible farmers. This ensures transparency, efficiency, and eliminates the need for intermediaries.

Eligibility Criteria:

The Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme is open to all farmers in West Bengal, including Bhagchasi (Sharecroppers). Here are the key eligibility criteria for farmers to avail themselves of the financial assistance:

  1. Farmer Status: Applicants must be recognized as farmers engaged in agricultural activities.
  2. Land Ownership: Farmers must own cultivable land, either individually or jointly, with a minimum landholding requirement of one acre or less.
  3. Residence: Applicants should be residents of West Bengal, actively involved in agricultural practices within the state.

Application Process:

Farmers interested in applying for the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme can follow the application process outlined below:

  1. Official Website: Visit the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department for the Krishak Bandhu Scheme. (Official Website URL)
  2. Registration: Look for the “Krishak Bandhu” or “Assured Income Scheme” section on the website and proceed with the registration process.
  3. Application Form: Fill out the online application form with accurate details, including personal information, land ownership details, contact information, and bank account details.
  4. Document Submission: Upload the necessary documents, such as identity proof, residential proof, age proof, and registration certificate of agricultural laborers.
  5. Form Submission: Review the application form, ensure all information is accurate, and submit the form online.
  6. Acknowledgment: After successful submission, an acknowledgment or registration number will be generated. Note down this number for future reference.
  7. Application Status: Applicants can check the status of their application through the official website or helpline numbers provided by the West Bengal Agricultural Department.

It is important for farmers to keep themselves updated with any announcements or changes regarding the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme by visiting the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department. Regularly checking for updates will ensure that farmers have access to the most recent information, application guidelines, and any additional benefits offered under the scheme.

The Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme plays a crucial role in supporting farmers in West Bengal by providing them with a stable income to meet their agricultural needs and improve their overall well-being. By offering financial assistance and promoting sustainable farming practices, the scheme contributes to the growth and development of the agricultural sector in the state.

Note: The official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department should be referred to for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Krishak Bandhu Assured Income Scheme.

3. Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme

The Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme is an integral part of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme introduced by the West Bengal Government. This scheme aims to provide financial support to the families of farmers in the unfortunate event of their death. By offering a one-time grant, the scheme seeks to alleviate the financial burden on the affected families. Here are the key details of the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme:

Financial Assistance for Farmer’s Family:

Under the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme, the family members or nominees of farmers who pass away are eligible to receive a one-time financial grant. This grant is aimed at providing immediate relief and support to the affected family during their time of distress. The following points provide an overview of the financial assistance provided:

  1. Grant Amount: The scheme offers a one-time grant of Rs. 2 lakh to the family members or nominees of the deceased farmer.
  2. Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the death benefit, the family member or nominee should fall within the age group of 18 to 60 years.
  3. Death Coverage: The scheme covers all forms of farmer deaths, including natural death and accidental death.
  4. Disbursement Process: The financial grant is disbursed to the eligible beneficiaries through a streamlined process to ensure timely assistance.

Eligibility Criteria:

To avail the benefits of the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme, the family members or nominees of the deceased farmer must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Relationship: The family member or nominee should have a valid relationship with the deceased farmer as recognized by the scheme.
  2. Age Criteria: The family member or nominee should be between the ages of 18 and 60 years.
  3. Residency: The applicant should be a resident of West Bengal.

Application Process:

The application process for the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme involves the following steps:

  1. Official Website: Visit the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department for the Krishak Bandhu Scheme.
  2. Application Form: Download the application form for the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme from the official website or obtain it from the concerned authorities.
  3. Form Filling: Fill out the application form with accurate details, including the deceased farmer’s information, the applicant’s details, and other required information.
  4. Document Submission: Attach the necessary documents, such as an attested copy of the death certificate, Krishak Bandhu Card, self-declaration of the applicant, ID proof, and ROR (Record of Rights) document.
  5. Form Submission: Submit the completed application form along with the supporting documents to the Assistant Director of Agriculture at the block level in the respective district.
  6. Verification Process: The authorities will verify the application and supporting documents to ensure eligibility and authenticity.
  7. Disbursement of Grant: Upon successful verification, the one-time financial grant of Rs. 2 lakh will be disbursed to the eligible beneficiary’s bank account.

It is important for the family members or nominees of deceased farmers to keep themselves updated with any announcements or changes regarding the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme by visiting the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department. Regularly checking for updates will ensure that they have access to the most recent information, application guidelines, and any additional benefits offered under the scheme.

Note: The official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department should be referred to for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Krishak Bandhu Death Benefit Scheme.

4. Krishak Bandhu Cards

Krishak Bandhu Cards are an essential component of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme introduced by the West Bengal Government. These cards serve as identification and application tools for farmers to access various benefits provided under the scheme. Let’s explore the key details about Krishak Bandhu Cards:

Introduction to Krishak Bandhu Cards:

Krishak Bandhu Cards are specially designed identification cards issued to registered farmers in West Bengal. These cards play a crucial role in enabling farmers to avail themselves of the benefits and services offered by the Krishak Bandhu Scheme. The cards contain important information about the farmers and serve as a means to streamline the application and verification processes.

Key Features and Benefits of Krishak Bandhu Cards:

Krishak Bandhu Cards offer several features and benefits that aim to simplify the process of availing scheme benefits for farmers. Here are some of the notable features and benefits of Krishak Bandhu Cards:

  1. Identification: The cards serve as official identification documents for farmers registered under the Krishak Bandhu Scheme.
  2. Application Tool: Farmers can use the Krishak Bandhu Cards as a means to apply for various benefits and services provided under the scheme.
  3. Access to Financial Assistance: With Krishak Bandhu Cards, farmers can access the assured income and death benefit schemes and receive financial assistance directly in their bank accounts.
  4. Streamlined Process: The cards streamline the application and verification processes, ensuring a more efficient and transparent distribution of benefits to eligible farmers.
  5. Easy Documentation: The cards contain all the necessary information about the farmers, reducing the need for repetitive documentation during the application process.
  6. Track Record: The cards help maintain a track record of the farmers’ participation in the scheme and their utilization of the benefits.

Application and Issuance of Krishak Bandhu Cards:

The process of applying for and obtaining Krishak Bandhu Cards is as follows:

  1. Registration: Farmers interested in availing the benefits of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme need to register themselves with the scheme through the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department.
  2. Application Form: Once registered, farmers can download the Krishak Bandhu Card application form from the official website or obtain it from the concerned authorities.
  3. Form Filling: Farmers should carefully fill out the application form, providing accurate details such as their personal information, contact details, landholding details, and any other required information.
  4. Document Submission: Farmers must submit the completed application form along with supporting documents, including proof of identity, proof of residence, age proof, registration certificates, and bank account details.
  5. Verification Process: The submitted application and documents undergo a verification process conducted by the authorities to ensure the eligibility and authenticity of the applicant.
  6. Card Issuance: Upon successful verification, Krishak Bandhu Cards are issued to the registered farmers. These cards contain the farmer’s details, unique identification numbers, and other relevant information.
  7. Card Activation: Farmers need to activate their Krishak Bandhu Cards by linking them to their bank accounts. This step ensures that the financial assistance is directly transferred to the designated bank account.

Farmers should regularly update their contact details and other relevant information associated with the Krishak Bandhu Cards to ensure effective communication and uninterrupted access to scheme benefits.

Note: The official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department should be referred to for the most accurate and up-to-date information on Krishak Bandhu Cards and their application process.

5. Support and Helpline

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme introduced by the West Bengal Government aims to provide support and assistance to farmers in the state. To ensure a smooth implementation of the scheme and address any queries or issues faced by farmers, a dedicated support system and helpline have been established. Let’s explore the support and helpline services available under the Krishak Bandhu Scheme:

  1. Helpline Numbers:

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme provides helpline numbers that farmers can reach out to for assistance, guidance, and resolution of their queries and concerns. These helpline numbers are staffed with trained personnel who are well-equipped to handle various issues related to the scheme.

The helpline numbers for the Krishak Bandhu Scheme are as follows:

  • Helpline Number 1: 8336957370
  • Helpline Number 2: 8597974989
  • Helpline Number 3: 6291720406

Farmers can contact these helpline numbers during the designated working hours to seek information, clarification, or support regarding the scheme.

  1. Assistance from Agricultural Department:

The Agricultural Department of West Bengal plays a pivotal role in the implementation and management of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme. Farmers can approach the department for various queries and assistance related to the scheme.

The department provides support in the following areas:

  • Scheme-related information and guidance
  • Application process and form submission assistance
  • Verification and eligibility clarification
  • Document submission and verification
  • Grievance redressal and issue resolution

Farmers can visit the official website of the West Bengal Agricultural Department to access the necessary information and contact details of the department officials.

  1. Online Portal and Official Website:

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme maintains an online portal and an official website where farmers can find detailed information about the scheme, application procedures, beneficiary lists, forms, and other relevant resources. The official website acts as a comprehensive source of information and updates for farmers.

The official website of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme can be accessed at [URL]. The website provides a user-friendly interface, allowing farmers to navigate through different sections and access the required information easily.

  1. Grievance Redressal:

In case farmers face any issues or have grievances related to the Krishak Bandhu Scheme, there is a grievance redressal mechanism in place to address their concerns. Farmers can reach out to the designated authorities through the helpline numbers or the official website to lodge their grievances and seek resolution.

The grievance redressal process ensures that farmers’ concerns are heard, investigated, and resolved in a timely and fair manner.

Note: It is advisable for farmers to refer to the official website of the Krishak Bandhu Scheme and the West Bengal Agricultural Department for the most accurate and up-to-date information on support services, helpline numbers, and grievance redressal mechanisms.

6. Conclusion

The Krishak Bandhu Scheme introduced by the West Bengal Government is a significant initiative aimed at providing financial assistance and support to farmers in the state. The scheme comprises the Assured Income Scheme and the Death Benefit Scheme, both of which aim to improve the livelihoods and well-being of farmers and their families.

Under the Assured Income Scheme, farmers holding one acre or more of cultivable land receive financial assistance of Rs. 10,000 per year, while those with less than one acre of land receive a minimum of Rs. 4,000 per year. This financial aid is provided in two installments during the Kharif and Rabi seasons, with the objective of improving the financial condition of farmers and supporting their agricultural activities.

In the event of a farmer’s death, the Death Benefit Scheme provides a one-time grant of Rs. 2 lakh to their family. This benefit offers financial support and assistance during a difficult time, covering both natural and accidental deaths of farmers. The family member or nominee of the farmer aged between 18 and 60 years is eligible to receive this benefit.

The issuance of Krishak Bandhu Cards to registered farmers is an important aspect of the scheme. These cards serve as a means to access various benefits and services offered under the Krishak Bandhu Scheme. Farmers can use these cards to apply for financial assistance, avail insurance coverage, and access other scheme-related benefits, thereby streamlining the process and ensuring easy access to the assistance they are entitled to.

The West Bengal Government has also established a dedicated helpline to provide support and assistance to farmers. Trained personnel are available to address queries, provide guidance, and resolve issues related to the scheme. Additionally, the official website of the scheme and the Agricultural Department of West Bengal serve as valuable resources for farmers to access relevant information and updates.

Overall, the Krishak Bandhu Scheme demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of farmers in West Bengal. By providing financial assistance, income security, and support to farmers and their families, the scheme aims to uplift the agricultural sector, alleviate financial burdens, and create a sustainable environment for farmers to thrive.

For more detailed information, application forms, and the latest updates on the Krishak Bandhu Scheme, farmers can visit the official website. It is advisable for farmers to refer to the official sources and contact the relevant authorities for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the scheme.

Through the Krishak Bandhu Scheme, the West Bengal Government aims to empower farmers, promote agricultural growth, and contribute to the overall development of the farming community in the state. The scheme recognizes the vital role of farmers in the economy and endeavors to create a conducive environment for their prosperity and well-being.

Leave a Comment