Main Benefit
KCC provides a revolving credit limit for crop production, post-harvest expenses, produce marketing loans, consumption requirements, and investment credit for agriculture and allied activities. Farmers can withdraw and repay as needed within the credit limit. The interest rate is concessional — currently around 7% per annum, with an additional 3% subvention for timely repayment, making the effective rate as low as 4% per annum for prompt payers. Loan amounts and interest rates are subject to the lending bank's current policies and RBI guidelines.
Eligibility
- All farmers — individual or joint cultivators, including owners and tenant farmers
- Oral lessees and sharecroppers with proof of cultivation
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs) or Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) of farmers
- Fishermen and animal husbandry farmers are also eligible under the extended KCC scheme
- Applicants must have a valid identity proof and address proof
Required Documents
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card (for loans above a certain threshold)
- Proof of land ownership or cultivation (land records, pattadar passbook, or lease agreement)
- Bank account details
- Passport-size photographs
- Crop details or cultivation plan
- Identity and address proof (voter ID, driving licence, or similar)
How to Apply
Farmers can apply for KCC at any bank branch — public sector banks, private banks, regional rural banks, or cooperative banks. Many banks also offer online application through their websites or mobile apps. The application requires land details, crop information, and KYC documents. The bank assesses the credit limit based on landholding, cropping pattern, and scale of finance. Processing time varies by bank.
How to Check Status
KCC holders can check their account status, outstanding balance, and transaction history through their bank's mobile app, internet banking, or by visiting the branch. Some banks also provide SMS alerts for transactions. For application status, contact the branch where the application was submitted or check the bank's online portal.
Official Government Source
Verify with Official Source
Important: Scheme rules, benefits, and deadlines can change. Always verify current information with the official government source linked above before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Kisan Credit Card?
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) is a credit facility issued by banks to farmers for meeting agricultural and allied activity expenses. It works like a revolving credit card — farmers can withdraw funds up to their sanctioned limit and repay as per the schedule.
What is the interest rate on KCC?
The interest rate on KCC loans is typically around 7% per annum. Farmers who repay on time receive an additional interest subvention of 3%, making the effective rate as low as 4% per annum. Exact rates may vary by bank and are subject to RBI guidelines.
How much credit limit can I get on KCC?
The credit limit is determined by the bank based on landholding size, cropping pattern, scale of finance, and repayment capacity. Limits can range from a few thousand rupees for small farmers to several lakhs for larger operations. The exact limit is bank-specific.
Who is eligible for KCC?
All farmers including individual cultivators, joint borrowers, tenant farmers, oral lessees, sharecroppers, SHGs, JLGs, fishermen, and animal husbandry farmers are eligible. Proof of cultivation and KYC documents are required.
What expenses can KCC be used for?
KCC can be used for crop production expenses (seeds, fertilizers, pesticides), post-harvest expenses, produce marketing loans, household consumption requirements during the cultivation period, and investment credit for agriculture and allied activities like dairy, poultry, and fisheries.
How do I repay my KCC loan?
KCC loans are typically repaid after the harvest season. Repayment can be made through the bank branch, mobile banking, internet banking, or authorised collection points. Timely repayment ensures continued access to credit and eligibility for interest subvention.
Can tenant farmers get KCC?
Yes, tenant farmers, oral lessees, and sharecroppers are eligible for KCC if they can provide proof of cultivation such as a lease agreement or self-declaration as per bank norms.
What happens if I don't repay on time?
Late repayment may result in penal interest, loss of interest subvention benefits, and a negative impact on your credit history. It may also affect your ability to get future loans. If you face difficulties, contact your bank early to discuss restructuring options.
Is KCC available for fisheries and animal husbandry?
Yes, the KCC scheme has been extended to cover fisheries and animal husbandry farmers, including dairy, poultry, and other allied activities. The credit limit and terms are determined based on the specific activity.
How long is KCC valid?
KCC is typically valid for 5 years and is subject to annual review. The credit limit may be revised based on changes in landholding, cropping pattern, or repayment history. Renewal is subject to satisfactory account conduct.