Farmers in Maharashtra have received a much-needed boost as the state government recently approved a groundbreaking decision to allow them to opt for a crop insurance scheme by paying a mere Re 1.
This move, announced in the state budget in March and subsequently approved by the cabinet, aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers and ensure the sustainability of agricultural practices.
In addition to this initiative, the government has also introduced the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi, which will provide an additional financial aid of Rs 6,000 to supplement the existing assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Samman Nidhi Yojana.
Furthermore, the government has pledged to expand organic farming in the state by bringing 25 lakh hectares under organic cultivation over the next three years. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Maharashtra.
The crop insurance scheme implemented by the Maharashtra government is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to protect farmers from the adverse effects of crop failures and natural disasters.
Under this scheme, farmers can now opt for insurance coverage by paying a nominal fee of Re 1. This means that the burden of the premium, which usually amounts to 2% of the insured sum, will be borne by the state government.
By eliminating the premium cost for farmers, the government aims to encourage more farmers to avail themselves of the insurance scheme, thereby safeguarding their livelihoods in case of unforeseen crop losses.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the significance of this scheme, stating, “The farmer will only have to register for the crop insurance scheme by paying Re 1. There will be no premium for them.”
This decision highlights the government’s commitment to easing the financial strain on farmers and ensuring their well-being.
Maharashtra Government’s Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Scheme
In addition to the crop insurance scheme, the Maharashtra government has introduced the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi.
This scheme will provide an additional Rs 6,000 to each farmer in the state, supplementing the assistance provided under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Samman Nidhi Yojana.
As a result, each farmer in Maharashtra will receive a total of Rs 12,000 annually, deposited directly into their bank accounts. The state’s grant will be disbursed in three installments of Rs 2,000 each. This financial aid aims to alleviate the economic challenges faced by farmers and support them in sustaining their agricultural activities.
Furthermore, the Maharashtra government is taking proactive steps to promote organic farming in the state. The cabinet has decided to bring 25 lakh hectares of agricultural land under organic cultivation within the next three years.
This move is part of the government’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and reducing the reliance on chemical inputs. To achieve this goal, the government plans to establish 1,000 bio-input source centers, thereby expanding the scope of the Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Organic Farming Mission.
These centers will provide farmers with the necessary resources, training, and guidance to adopt organic farming methods and enhance the productivity of their land while minimizing environmental impact.
The recent initiatives undertaken by the Maharashtra government, such as the affordable crop insurance scheme and the promotion of sustainable agriculture, exemplify their commitment to the well-being of farmers.
By allowing farmers to access crop insurance for a minimal premium of Re 1, while the state covers the remaining 2%, the government is easing the financial burden on farmers and ensuring their protection against crop losses.
Additionally, the focus on expanding organic farming and establishing bio-input source centers demonstrates the government’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices, reducing reliance on chemicals, and safeguarding the environment.
These farmer-friendly measures highlight the government’s proactive approach toward supporting farmers and fostering a sustainable agricultural ecosystem in Maharashtra.
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