Amaravati: AP Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme: Empowering Farmers with Financial Aid
Overview of the Scheme
The Andhra Pradesh government has launched the Annadata Sukhibhava Scheme to provide financial assistance to farmers, enhancing their economic stability. This initiative, rebranded from the YSR Rythu Bharosa Scheme, offers ₹20,000 annually to eligible farmers, integrating ₹6,000 from the central PM-KISAN scheme with an additional ₹14,000 from the state.
Objectives and Benefits
The scheme aims to alleviate financial burdens faced by farmers due to rising input costs, such as seeds and fertilizers. It provides direct bank transfers in three installments, alongside support for seeds, fertilizers, and compensation for natural disasters, fostering agricultural productivity and resilience.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must be permanent residents of Andhra Pradesh, engaged in farming, and either own up to 5 acres of land or be tenant farmers with a valid Crop Cultivator Rights Card (CCRC). Beneficiaries of the PM-KISAN scheme are automatically eligible, but only one member per family can avail of the benefits.
Eligibility Requirements
- Residency: Permanent resident of Andhra Pradesh.
- Occupation: Must be a farmer by profession.
- Land Ownership: Own up to 5 acres or be a tenant farmer with a CCRC.
- PM-KISAN Enrollment: Registered under the PM-KISAN scheme.
- Age: Minimum 18 years.
- Documentation: Valid Aadhaar-linked bank account and land documents.
Exclusions from the Scheme
Certain groups are ineligible, including income-tax payers, government employees, pensioners receiving over ₹10,000 monthly, and elected representatives. The scheme considers the family as a single unit, limiting benefits to one member per household.
Application Process
Farmers can apply online via the official Annadata Sukhibhava portal (annadathasukhibhava.ap.gov.in). The process involves submitting personal details, Aadhaar-linked bank account information, and land documents, followed by OTP verification.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Visit annadathasukhibhava.ap.gov.in.
- Click “Apply Online” and enter Aadhaar number to receive an OTP.
- Verify OTP and provide details like name, address, and bank account.
- Select district, mandal, and village, then upload required documents.
- Submit the application and note the registration number for status tracking.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Aadhaar Card (linked to mobile number)
- Land ownership or tenancy documents
- Domicile certificate
- Bank passbook copy
- Passport-size photographs
- CCRC for tenant farmers
Budget and Implementation
The scheme, part of the TDP-led government’s “Super Six” initiatives, has a budget of ₹4,600 crore for 2025, aiming to benefit over 70 lakh farmers. Implementation began in June 2024, with funds disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Status Checking
Beneficiaries can track their application or payment status online by visiting the official portal, selecting “Know Your Status,” and entering their registration or Aadhaar number. This digital interface enhances transparency and accessibility.
Impact on Farmers
By providing financial aid and resources, the scheme empowers small and marginal farmers to invest in quality inputs, mitigate losses from natural calamities, and improve their livelihoods. It aligns with the state’s goal of doubling farmers’ incomes and strengthening the agricultural sector.