Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme is an institutional credit delivery mechanism designed to provide farmers with timely and hassle-free access to short-term credit for crop cultivation and ancillary agricultural requirements.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The KCC scheme was prepared by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) based on the recommendations of the R. V. Gupta Committee.
The scheme was formally introduced by Indian public sector banks in August 1998.
Its key objectives include meeting the short-term credit requirements for cultivation, post-harvest expenses, produce marketing loans, consumption requirements of farmer households, and working capital for maintenance of farm assets.
The scope of the KCC has since been expanded to cover animal husbandry, dairy, and fisheries.
Step 3: Final Answer:
KCC was introduced in India in August 1998.