Maharashtra Minister's Remarks on Crop Insurance Ignite Debate

Amravati (Maharashtra), Feb 14 (NationPress) The agriculture minister of Maharashtra and NCP leader Manikrao Kokate triggered a significant controversy on Friday by asserting that even beggars refuse to accept a rupee in handouts, while the state government has extended a crop insurance scheme to farmers for just Re 1.

After reviewing the agriculture department's assessment of the Amravati division, Kokate remarked, “Even a beggar does not accept a Re 1, yet the state government provides crop insurance to farmers at Re 1. However, there have been instances of misuse. The government believes that the crop insurance scheme must thrive so that deserving farmers can access its benefits. The government has experienced both positive and negative outcomes with crop insurance. Crop insurance companies often exploit farmers. The government is committed to ensuring that the crop insurance continues but acknowledges the need for reforms to curb irregularities within the scheme,” he stated.

Kokate elaborated on the government's plans to modify the crop insurance scheme, proposing an increase in the amount from the current Re 1 to Rs 100. He reassured that the scheme would not be terminated, and that appropriate decisions would be made in conjunction with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.

The crop insurance initiative was first introduced in the 2023 budget by the then-finance minister and deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Under this scheme, farmers could obtain crop insurance for merely Re 1. Previously, farmers were required to pay 2 percent of the insurance premium to the companies. However, the scheme faced backlash after a review uncovered over 4 lakh fraudulent applicants.

Kokate clarified that he never intended to make such a statement, attributing the misunderstanding to media misinterpretation. In January, he had attracted attention by claiming that there was “3-4 percent corruption in every government scheme.”

The opposition has heavily criticized Kokate, calling for his resignation, arguing that he should not demean farmers who tirelessly work to sustain the population. Both the BJP and NCP have admonished the minister, urging him to respect farmers and refrain from making controversial remarks.

NCP leader and food and civil supply minister Narahari Zirwal stated that he had not seen Kokate’s comments but insisted that if they were made, an apology is warranted.

The Leader of Opposition in the state council, Ambadas Danve, vehemently criticized Kokate, insisting that the minister should retract his statement and resign.

BJP legislator Praveen Darekar emphasized that the minister must honor the farming community and avoid controversial statements.

The state Congress chief spokesman, Atul Londhe, questioned Kokate's audacity in labeling farmers as beggars, asking, “Is the government attentive to farmers? Is there any shame? DCM Ajit Pawar should demand Kokate’s resignation immediately,” he asserted.

Kisan Sabha leader Ajit Navale condemned Kokate's remarks, stating, “The minister’s statement is a significant insult to self-respecting farmers. The Kisan Sabha vehemently denounces it.”

NCP chief spokesman Anand Paranjape suggested that party ministers and representatives should exercise greater responsibility in their statements, ensuring that their words do not offend any community.

Meanwhile, Kokate acknowledged, “There have been irregularities in the crop insurance scheme that have come to light. Individuals from other states have applied online, resulting in a backlog of applications. Following an investigation, 4 lakh applications have been rejected.”