Himachal Pradesh: Is the last date for maize and paddy crop insurance in Kangra really extended to July 31?

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Himachal Pradesh: Is the last date for maize and paddy crop insurance in Kangra really extended to July 31?

Synopsis

Farmers in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, have until July 31 to enroll in the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) for maize and paddy crop insurance. This extension due to delayed monsoon offers vital protection against natural disasters. Learn how this scheme benefits farmers and how to enroll before the deadline.

Key Takeaways

  • Farmers in Kangra have until July 31 to enroll in crop insurance.
  • The PMFBY offers compensation of up to Rs 2,400 per kanal.
  • Automatic enrollment is available for Kisan Credit Card holders.
  • Farmers can register through Lok Mitra Kendras.
  • PMFBY continues until 2025-26 with a substantial budget.

Kangra, July 30 (NationPress) Farmers residing in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, now have until July 31 to secure insurance for their maize and paddy crops under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), which is the central government’s leading crop insurance initiative. The deadline was originally set for June 30 but has been extended because of delayed monsoon and sowing activities.

The PMFBY scheme provides coverage against natural disasters such as cyclones, lightning, landslides, waterlogging, and various weather-related damages. To raise awareness, the Agriculture Department is organizing village-level camps to educate farmers about the advantages and enrollment process of PMFBY.

Shailesh Paul Sood, a Subject Matter Specialist at the Agriculture Department in Nurpur, stated, “Farmers cultivating maize and paddy should take advantage of this opportunity before the July 31 deadline. The scheme offers compensation of up to Rs 2,400 per kanal (a unit of land measurement in parts of India and Pakistan) for a minimal premium of Rs 48 per kanal.”

For farmers who have obtained agricultural loans via the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), crop insurance is automatically enrolled by their bank. However, they must confirm that the insurance premium has been deducted from their accounts.

Farmers without loans can sign up for the scheme through Lok Mitra Kendras by providing a photograph, identity proof, address proof, and Khasra number. The appointed insurance company under the scheme manages claims and compensation in the event of verified crop damage.

Last year, over 4,400 farmers in Kangra received a total compensation of Rs 83.41 lakh, showcasing the tangible benefits of the scheme during crop failures caused by adverse weather.

On February 18, 2025, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana celebrated its ninth anniversary, marking nearly a decade of empowering India's farmers. Launched in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the scheme offers comprehensive protection against crop losses caused by unpredictable natural hazards, stabilizing farmers' income and encouraging the adoption of innovative practices.

Crop insurance serves as a critical risk management tool for safeguarding farmers against natural disasters. Its goal is to provide financial assistance to those suffering from crop loss or damage due to natural catastrophes such as hailstorms, droughts, floods, cyclones, heavy and unseasonal rains, diseases, and pests.

Recognizing the success and potential of the scheme, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme until 2025-26 in January 2025, with a total budget of Rs 69,515.71 crore.

The PMFBY aims to utilize advanced technology, including satellite imagery, drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, and remote sensing.

Point of View

The extension of the PMFBY deadline highlights the government's commitment to supporting farmers during unpredictable weather patterns. This initiative not only aids in financial stabilization but also encourages agricultural innovation. The PMFBY continues to be a significant tool for risk management, reinforcing the importance of crop insurance in today's climate.
NationPress
31/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last date for crop insurance enrollment in Kangra?
The last date for crop insurance enrollment for maize and paddy crops in Kangra is July 31.
How much compensation can farmers receive under PMFBY?
Farmers can receive compensation of up to Rs 2,400 per kanal.
What should farmers do if they have a Kisan Credit Card?
Farmers with a Kisan Credit Card will automatically be enrolled in crop insurance but should verify that their premium has been deducted.
How can farmers without loans enroll in PMFBY?
Farmers without loans can enroll by visiting Lok Mitra Kendras with required documents.
What is the budget for the continued PMFBY?
The Union Cabinet has approved a budget of Rs 69,515.71 crore for the continuation of PMFBY until 2025-26.