International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Kuldeep Jaiswal and Ajay Tegar

abstract
This study evaluates the impact of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme on agricultural development in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh. The objectives were to assess the growth and coverage of the scheme, compare crop economics between KCC and non-KCC farmers, and identify adoption constraints. Primary data were collected from 168 farmers using stratified random sampling, while secondary information was obtained from NABARD, RBI, and cooperative banks. Results showed that only 55.56% of registered farmers accessed KCCs, with higher coverage in Durg, Narayanpur, and Bemetara, and poor penetration in Jashpur and Balrampur. The cooperative sector issued over 90% of total cards, while Bilha and Kargi Road branches led in Bilaspur. Despite a 7.11% growth rate in issuance, credit disbursement trends remained inconsistent. Economic analysis revealed that KCC farmers incurred slightly higher costs (?67,952/ha vs. ?65,986/ha) but achieved greater profitability, with higher net returns (?59,031/ha vs. ?55,776/ha), input-output ratio (1.87 vs. 1.85), and cost-benefit ratio (0.87 vs. 0.85). The study highlights key issues: 63.40% farmers lack awareness of KCC benefits, 55.14% face complex paperwork, and 47.74% remain ineligible due to no land documents. Further, 43.66% face digital barriers and 38.16% report disbursement delays. Suggested measures include awareness drives, simplified processes, flexible eligibility norms, digital access, timely credit, wider bank participation, irrigation support, and farmer training.