Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and farmers play a vital role in ensuring food security for the nation. Despite their importance, many small farmers struggle with access to affordable credit, seeds, fertilizers, and modern equipment. Recognizing this challenge, the Government of Pakistan has relaunched the Kisan Card in 2025, giving farmers a chance to access loans of up to Rs. 200,000 (2 lakh) with ease.
This article provides a complete guide on the Kisan Card relaunch, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and the step-by-step method to check your payment status.
What is the Kisan Card?
The Kisan Card is a government-backed financial tool designed to provide low-interest loans and subsidies to farmers. With the Kisan Card, registered farmers can:
- Access seasonal loans for crops.
- Purchase seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides at subsidized rates.
- Pay back loans after harvesting crops.
- Receive government subsidies directly into their accounts.
The card is issued in collaboration with banks (such as Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) and other partner banks), ensuring transparency and smooth financial transactions.
Kisan Card Relaunch in 2025
The relaunch of the Kisan Card in October 2025 has come with several new features and benefits. Farmers will now be able to:
- Apply for loans up to Rs. 200,000 (2 lakh).
- Receive subsidies directly linked to their Kisan Card.
- Use the card as a debit card for agriculture-related purchases.
- Check payments and loan status through mobile apps and SMS.
The government aims to empower farmers by reducing their dependence on private lenders who often charge high interest rates.
Eligibility Criteria for Kisan Card 2025
To apply for the Kisan Card, farmers must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a Pakistani citizen.
- Have CNIC registered with NADRA.
- Be registered with the Punjab Agriculture Department or the relevant provincial agriculture department.
- Must own or lease agricultural land (up to a certain limit).
- Must not have defaulted on previous loans.
Documents Required for Application
When applying for the Kisan Card, farmers need to submit:
- Original CNIC.
- Proof of land ownership or lease agreement.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Bank account details (if available).
- Mobile number registered on their CNIC.
Registration Process for Kisan Card 2025
The government has made the registration process simple. Here’s how farmers can apply:
Step 1: Visit the Agriculture Department Office
Farmers must visit the nearest Agriculture Department office in their district with the required documents.
Step 2: Submit Application
Fill out the Kisan Card registration form with accurate details.
Step 3: Verification
Your land and identity will be verified through NADRA and provincial agriculture records.
Step 4: Bank Account Opening
If you don’t already have a bank account, one will be opened in your name in a partner bank.
Step 5: Card Issuance
After verification, the Kisan Card will be issued and activated for loan disbursement.
Loan Disbursement through Kisan Card
Farmers can receive loans up to Rs. 200,000, which can be used for:
- Buying seeds and fertilizers.
- Purchasing pesticides.
- Renting agricultural machinery.
- Covering irrigation expenses.
The loan is repayable after harvest, usually within 6 months to 1 year, depending on crop cycles.
How to Check Your Payment Status
Once registered, farmers can easily check their loan or subsidy payment status through the following methods:
1. By SMS
- Type your CNIC number in the SMS.
- Send it to the official Kisan Card helpline (number announced by the government).
- Receive a reply with loan or payment details.
2. Through Mobile App
The Agriculture Department mobile app (where available) allows farmers to check loan status, balance, and subsidy history directly from their phone.
3. Via Bank ATM
Insert your Kisan Card into a partner bank ATM (e.g., ZTBL, HBL, Bank of Punjab), enter your PIN, and check your balance.
4. By Visiting the Agriculture Office
For farmers with limited digital access, visiting the local Agriculture Department office is also an option to verify payment details.
Benefits of the Relaunched Kisan Card
The Kisan Card 2025 provides multiple benefits to farmers:
- Easy access to credit—farmers can borrow without complicated paperwork.
- Low interest rates—much lower than private moneylenders.
- Direct subsidies—Fertilizer and seed subsidies are directly credited to the card.
- Financial inclusion—Small farmers get access to formal banking channels.
- Empowerment—Farmers can make independent financial decisions.
Challenges Farmers Face
Despite the benefits, some challenges exist:
- Lack of awareness in rural areas.
- Connectivity issues for SMS and mobile apps.
- Limited literacy among farmers makes digital usage difficult.
- Delays in subsidy disbursement in some regions.
The government aims to overcome these issues by setting up help desks and awareness campaigns.
Kisan Card vs. Previous Loan Schemes
Unlike past programs that involved complicated procedures and middlemen, the Kisan Card ensures:
- Transparency—Loans and subsidies are directly transferred.
- Ease of use—Farmers can use ATMs and apps for quick access.
- Greater coverage—a higher number of small farmers are included.
How Farmers Can Maximize the Benefits
To get the best out of the Kisan Card, farmers should:
- Use loans strictly for agricultural purposes.
- Avoid delays in repayment to maintain eligibility.
- Keep CNIC and mobile numbers updated with NADRA.
- Stay informed about government announcements.
Future of the Kisan Card Program
With the success of the relaunch, the government plans to:
- Expand the program to all provinces.
- Increase the loan limit beyond Rs. 200,000 in the future.
- Link the card with crop insurance schemes.
- Offer digital literacy training for farmers.
Conclusion
The Kisan Card 2025 relaunch is a major step toward farmer empowerment in Pakistan. By providing loans up to Rs. 2 lakh, subsidies, and financial inclusion, the government aims to strengthen agriculture and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
For farmers, it is crucial to register early, understand the eligibility criteria, and regularly check their payment status through SMS, mobile apps, or partner banks. With proper implementation, the Kisan Card has the potential to transform Pakistan’s agricultural sector.