Maharashtra government urges drought-hit farmers to complete e-KYC, obtain Farmer IDs to access benefits

Maharashtra is currently experiencing one of its worst droughts in recent memory, with water tables falling and crop yields shrinking across several districts. Small and marginal farmers, who depend on rain‑fed agriculture, are facing severe income loss and are at risk of falling into debt. The state government has therefore intensified its relief measures, aiming to channel financial aid quickly to those most in need. By focusing on the most vulnerable regions, officials hope to prevent a larger humanitarian crisis.

The government has introduced an electronic Know Your Customer (e‑KYC) system that links each farmer to a unique Farmer ID. The process involves submitting identity documents, proof of land ownership or cultivation, and bank details through a mobile app or designated help centres. Once verified, the Farmer ID becomes the key to unlocking a range of benefits, including direct cash transfers, subsidised seeds, and insurance schemes. This digital approach reduces paperwork, speeds up verification, and limits the chances of fraud.

Officials say that when the registration is complete, funds will be transferred straight to the farmer’s bank account, eliminating the need for intermediaries. The move is expected to improve financial inclusion in rural areas and give farmers more control over their own resources. It also aligns with broader national efforts to digitise welfare delivery. For the farming community, timely access to cash can mean the difference between planting a new crop or abandoning the field for the season.