In a major relief measure for Delhi’s farming community, the Delhi Cabinet has approved a significant increase in compensation for crop losses caused by last year’s heavy monsoon rains and waterlogging, raising the ex-gratia assistance rate to Rs 75,000 per hectare. The decision is expected to benefit nearly 10,000 farmers whose crops were devastated during the August-September 2025 rainfall spell. Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the government has sanctioned enhanced financial assistance for farmers affected by severe flooding and prolonged waterlogging in agricultural fields. The move follows extensive damage caused by unusually heavy rainfall and the overflow of natural drainage channels, which left thousands of acres of farmland submerged and crops destroyed.

Government assessments show that around 10,977.44 acres, or approximately 4,442.41 hectares, of agricultural land across Delhi suffered damage during the period. A detailed survey conducted by the Revenue Department found that crop losses in the affected areas were extensive, with damage assessed at 100 percent, prompting the government to approve compensation at the highest applicable rate. The revised package marks a substantial increase from the relief framework introduced in 2015. Under the earlier policy, farmers were entitled to compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre, equivalent to around Rs 49,421 per hectare, for crop losses caused by excessive rainfall. The government said the latest revision takes into account the sharp increase in cultivation costs over the past decade, ensuring that farmers receive more realistic financial support in the aftermath of natural disasters.

 

Source - https://www.thehansindia.com