Kisan Credit Card (KCC) – How to Apply, Eligibility and Benefits

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme provides farmers with affordable and timely access to credit for their agricultural needs. Launched by the Government of India, KCC helps farmers meet expenses related to crop cultivation, post-harvest activities, and allied agricultural operations. The scheme is implemented through commercial banks, cooperative banks, and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) across India.

What is Kisan Credit Card?

Kisan Credit Card is a credit scheme that provides farmers with a revolving credit facility at subsidised interest rates. Under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS), farmers get short-term crop loans at 4% effective interest rate (7% nominal rate minus 3% prompt repayment incentive) for loans up to ₹3 lakh. In Budget 2025-26, the KCC loan limit with interest subvention was enhanced to ₹5 lakh.

The card works like a flexible credit line — farmers can withdraw money as needed during the crop season and repay after harvest.

Who is Eligible?

• Individual farmers — owner cultivators
• Tenant farmers, oral lessees, and sharecroppers
• Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) of farmers
• Farmers engaged in animal husbandry (dairy, poultry, etc.)
• Farmers engaged in fisheries (inland and marine)
• The applicant must be an Indian citizen
• Minimum age: 18 years, Maximum age: 75 years (co-borrower required above 60 years)

Documents Required

Identity & Address Proof

• Aadhaar card (mandatory for KYC)
• PAN card (for loans above ₹1.6 lakh)
• Voter ID / Driving licence / Passport

Land & Agriculture Documents

• Land ownership documents (khasra/khatauni, land revenue receipt)
• Crop sowing certificate from Patwari/Village officer
• For tenant farmers — rent agreement or tenancy certificate

Other Documents

• Passport-size photographs (2)
• Duly filled KCC application form
• For animal husbandry/fisheries — proof of activity (cattle/fish ownership, etc.)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Online Application (via PM-KISAN Portal)

1. Visit the PM-KISAN portal at pmkisan.gov.in
2. Click on "KCC Form" link on the homepage
3. Enter your Aadhaar number and registered mobile number
4. Verify OTP received on your mobile
5. Your details will be auto-filled from PM-KISAN database
6. Download the pre-filled KCC application form
7. Print and submit the form at your nearest bank branch with required documents
8. Bank will process and issue KCC within 14 days

Offline Application (via Bank Branch)

1. Visit your nearest commercial bank, cooperative bank, or RRB branch
2. Request the KCC application form from the bank
3. Fill in details — personal information, land details, crop details
4. Attach all required documents (identity proof, land documents, photographs)
5. Submit the form at the bank counter
6. Bank officer will verify documents and inspect land (if required)
7. Loan sanctioned and KCC card issued within 14 working days

Via Common Service Centres (CSCs)

1. Visit your nearest CSC/Jan Seva Kendra
2. The CSC operator will help fill the KCC application online
3. Submit documents for verification
4. Application forwarded to the nearest bank branch for processing

Credit Limit Under KCC

Key Benefits

• Low interest rate — effective 4% p.a. with prompt repayment incentive
• Flexible withdrawal — use credit as needed during the crop cycle
• Insurance coverage — personal accident insurance up to ₹50,000 (death) and ₹25,000 (disability)
• No collateral required for loans up to ₹1.6 lakh
• ATM-enabled card for cash withdrawal from any ATM
• Covers allied activities — dairy, poultry, fisheries, sericulture
• One-time documentation — card valid for 5 years with annual renewal

Processing Time

Important Tips

1. Repay on time to get the 3% interest subvention — effective rate drops from 7% to 4%
2. PM-KISAN beneficiaries can apply easily via the pre-filled KCC form on the PM-KISAN portal
3. Renew your KCC annually before expiry to maintain your credit limit
4. Keep your land records updated — any change in land ownership should be reported to the bank
5. Crop insurance under PM Fasal Bima Yojana can be linked to your KCC for added protection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum loan amount under KCC?

There is no fixed upper limit. The credit limit is calculated based on the scale of finance for the crops grown and the area cultivated. However, the interest subvention benefit (subsidised rate) applies for loans up to ₹5 lakh.

Can tenant farmers apply for KCC?

Yes. Tenant farmers, sharecroppers, and oral lessees can apply for KCC. They need to provide a tenancy certificate or agreement as proof.

Is collateral required for KCC?

No collateral or mortgage is required for KCC loans up to ₹1.6 lakh. For loans above this amount, banks may ask for collateral security.

Can KCC be used for dairy farming or fisheries?

Yes. The KCC scheme was extended to cover animal husbandry (dairy, poultry) and fisheries activities in 2018-19. Farmers engaged in these allied activities can apply.

What happens if I don't repay the KCC loan on time?

You will lose the 3% prompt repayment incentive, and the interest rate will be 7% instead of 4%. Continued default may lead to the loan being classified as NPA, affecting your credit score.

Can I apply for KCC at any bank?

You can apply at any scheduled commercial bank, cooperative bank, or Regional Rural Bank. It is advisable to apply at the bank where you have an existing account or where you receive PM-KISAN benefits.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the Government of India. For official details, visit pmkisan.gov.in or contact your nearest bank branch.