Role of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi in Enhancing Farmers Knowledge and Adaptation of Modern Onion Production Technologies: A Review

Abstract

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) has become a critical instrument in strengthening farm-level investment and technological advancement across horticultural sectors, particularly onion cultivation. The multifaceted impact of PM-KISAN on farmers' knowledge dissemination, resource allocation, and the adoption of modern onion production technologies. Onion, being a high-value perishable crop, demands timely input access, efficient irrigation, pest management, and scientific post-harvest handling, which are often constrained by financial limitations among small and marginal farmers. PM-KISAN provides direct income support of ₹6,000 per annum to eligible landholding farmers, enabling the timely procurement of certified seeds, fertilisers, biopesticides, and minor farm equipment. Evidence from ICAR, NABARD, and MIDH suggests that beneficiaries under this scheme show higher adoption rates of improved varieties like Bhima Super and Bhima Raj, drip fertigation, and ventilated storage technologies. The scheme also positively influences participation in KVK-led field demonstrations, ICT-enabled advisories, and exposure visits that enhance technical knowledge. Institutional challenges such as the exclusion of tenants and landless farmers, delays in fund transfers, and limited convergence with the MIDH and KVK extension systems reduce the effectiveness of the scheme. Gender-disaggregated data also reveal emerging participation among women farmers, yet underline the need for inclusive policy refinement. Integration of PM-KISAN with region-specific subsidy, formation of FPOs, digital extension platforms, and weather-linked advisories can enhance its role in sustainable onion value chains. Impact evaluations indicate improved income stability, reduction in post-harvest losses, and increased price realisation for PM-KISAN recipients. To fully realise the scheme’s transformative potential, there is an urgent requirement for continuous monitoring, adaptive policy redesign, and region-wise research interventions. PM-KISAN, if strategically aligned with targeted horticultural support and extension services, can become a cornerstone for advancing climate-resilient and economically viable onion production systems across diversified agro-ecologies.