New Delhi, Dec 9 (NationPress) Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, during Question Hour, confirming that the government has broadened the crop insurance scheme to encompass losses not only from natural disasters but also from inundations and damages caused by wild and stray animals.

This assurance was provided in response to inquiries from Nareshchandra Uttam Patel of the Samajwadi Party, representing Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, who sought clarity on how the government plans to handle crop losses that typically fall outside the conventional definitions of natural disasters.

Chouhan emphasized during the session that the government has implemented multiple amendments to make the scheme more farmer-friendly and more in tune with the realities on the ground.

He explained that previously, the tehsil was used as the unit for assessing crop losses; however, the village has now been designated as the assessment unit. This modification allows for a more accurate identification of affected regions and ensures that even localized disasters are considered.

“If a single unit of land experiences losses due to local disasters, we will provide reimbursement through the crop insurance scheme because farmers should not be penalized for circumstances beyond their control,” Chouhan stated.

He further noted that including damages from wild and stray animals, in addition to flooding, underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the varied challenges faced by farmers.

The minister also pointed out that state governments are employing crop-cutting experiments and weather-based crop insurance models to ensure precise compensation.

Chouhan indicated that when crop losses exceed 35 percent, farmers receive Rs 17,000 per acre for agricultural crop losses, while perennial crops are compensated at Rs 22,500 per acre. These initiatives aim to provide timely assistance and protect farmers from unexpected risks.

His statements highlighted the government's broader vision of enhancing rural resilience and ensuring farmers are not vulnerable to factors outside their control.

By widening the scope of the crop insurance scheme, the government aims to bolster confidence among farmers and reinforce its commitment to agricultural welfare.

This announcement is anticipated to offer substantial relief to farmers nationwide, particularly those in areas frequently impacted by stray animal incidents and seasonal flooding, thereby fortifying the safety net for India’s agrarian economy.