AGRICULTURE CREDIT AND THE ROLE OF KISAN CREDIT CARD (KCC) IN INDIA

This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of agricultural credit in India, focusing on the transformative role of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme in empowering farmers. Through a review of literature and an examination of pertinent data from various government reports and international organizations, this study evaluates the evolution of agricultural credit, assesses the trends in credit disbursement, and explores the significant impact of the KCC on agricultural productivity, rural development, and financial inclusion. The analysis showcases the KCC's contribution in facilitating timely credit access, reducing dependency on informal credit sources, and enhancing financial accessibility for farmers across different banking institutions. Furthermore, this paper discusses policy implications and recommendations to augment the effectiveness of KCC and agricultural credit schemes in meeting the evolving needs of farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural growth. The insights drawn from this research aim to provide a nuanced understanding of agricultural credit dynamics and underscore the pivotal role of KCC in enhancing the livelihoods of Indian farmers. KEYWORDS: Agricultural credit, Kisan Credit Card (KCC), financial inclusion, rural development, farmers' empowerment, policy recommendations, sustainable agriculture