How is Rajasthan CM Supporting Farmers with Rs 239cr Subsidy?

Jaipur, June 27 (NationPress) In a pivotal decision aimed at assisting farmers impacted by crop damage, Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has sanctioned an agricultural input subsidy totaling Rs 239 crore. This initiative will provide essential support to 70,366 farmers across 143 villages in Rajasthan, delivering crucial relief through the Disaster Relief Fund.

An official stated that the Rajasthan government, under Chief Minister Sharma's guidance, remains committed to prioritizing farmer welfare. Noteworthy measures include the Chief Minister Kisan Samman Nidhi, an additional bonus on MSP wheat procurement, interest-free short-term crop loans, and expedited insurance claim disbursements under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, all designed to enhance the livelihoods of the farming community and increase agricultural income, as reported by CMO officials.

This new subsidy specifically addresses crop losses incurred during the Rabi season of 2024-25, when unexpected hailstorms wreaked havoc on crops across 18 tehsils in 8 districts.

In a swift response to the crisis, Chief Minister Sharma ordered immediate Girdawari (crop loss assessment), resulting in the state government declaring 143 villages—suffering over 33 percent crop loss—as scarcity-affected regions.

This decisive action underscores the government's unwavering commitment to supporting farmers during challenging times and ensuring prompt assistance through effective disaster management strategies, officials noted.

Rajasthan experienced an abrupt change in weather at the end of February and throughout March due to the influence of a western disturbance. Intense rains and hailstorms struck Bikaner and Churu, inflicting substantial damage to crops.

In the Shekhawati area, the weather took another drastic turn, adversely affecting standing crops such as mustard, isabgol, and wheat. Hailstorms, accompanied by rain, impacted numerous villages, including Rajasar Panwaran, Lunasar, Ransisar, and Bijrasar in Churu.

The severe hailstorm flattened crops and caused pods to drop, resulting in significant financial setbacks for farmers.

Farmers in the Lunkaransar tehsil of Bikaner faced devastation as a powerful hailstorm struck the area. Hail pelted the fields for 15-20 minutes, damaging mature Rabi crops, including mustard, gram, wheat, isabgol, and barley.

The hailstorm, which occurred intermittently since 3:30 PM, has left many farmers grappling with heavy losses. Meanwhile, the state government has initiated surveys to facilitate relief for farmers impacted by crop damage from rains and hailstorms.