Agroinsurance

NEWS

India - Economist demands crop cover for all farmers in Maharashtra

16.06.2016 305 views

Economist H M Desarda on Wednesday sought universal crop insurance for around 14 million farmers in Maharashtra, premium of which should be borne by the state and central governments. Welcoming the "Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana" introduced by the Centre, Desarda said, "Under this scheme, farmers can avail crop insurance by shelling out minimal amount for the premium. It is just 2% for Kharif crop and one-and-a-half per cent for Rabi crop. For long duration commercial and horticultural crops, it is 5%." He, however, said the scheme may look attractive and low-cost on paper, but considering the penury and deep distress among farmers, many of them may not be able to afford the premium. "In order to overcome this hurdle, universal crop insurance should be provided to the farmers where the cost of the premium should be borne by the state and central government," Desarda suggested.

He said the state government should understand the logic behind the suggestion. "If provided, it will serve as livelihood income support to farmers and landless agricultural labourers," he added.

Desarda hoped that the government would consider his demand and implement the insurance scheme for all the farmers in the state - the strength currently stands at 14 million. "This will prove a significant step to redeem the farmers from indebtedness and distress, which is the need of the hour," the economist said.

Desarda has conducted a survey of 22 districts in Maharashtra to assess the impact and implications of the chronic conditions in rural Maharashtra. He has also lambasted the conceptual flaws in the programme and policies of the state government to tackle the agrarian crisis.

He said though the state government has spent crores of rupees to provide drinking water, fodder and work to bring about a positive change in the lives of those staying in scarcity-hit areas, the benefits are yet to reach the needy. Source - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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