The rise of digital connectivity in rural India has created new avenues for both opportunity and exploitation. In Koderma, Jharkhand, cybercriminals are targeting farmers by invoking the Chief Minister Tractor Scheme, claiming that a tractor worth ₹16.5 lakh can be secured by paying just ₹1.5 lakh upfront. Farmers are told the rest of the cost will be covered by government subsidy and that the tractor will be delivered directly to their homes the next day.
How Fraudsters Impersonate Officials
Scammers pose as employees of the Agriculture Department, complete with fabricated credentials and membership claims in local cooperative societies. They collect Aadhaar and voter card details over WhatsApp, along with bank transfers or UPI payments. Victims are persuaded through fabricated references and fake testimonies of “farmers” who supposedly received tractors after paying the initial sum.
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Exploiting Financial Vulnerability
Experts note that such schemes prey on farmers’ aspirations and lack of familiarity with bureaucratic processes. With margins already squeezed by rising input costs, farmers are drawn to offers of subsidies that promise quick relief. Instead, they end up losing both their money and personal documents, which can be misused for further fraud.
Calls for Greater Awareness and Protection
Authorities emphasize that no legitimate government scheme requires direct deposits into personal bank accounts. Citizens are urged to verify any welfare scheme through official websites or local government offices. Officials also highlight the importance of filing complaints on the national cybercrime portal or dialing the 1930 helpline immediately after an incident. Swift reporting, they say, can improve the chances of recovering stolen funds.