Introduction
PM Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme that was launched by the Government of India in 2016. The scheme aims to provide insurance coverage and financial support to farmers in the event of crop failure due to natural calamities, pests, or diseases. PMFBY replaces earlier crop insurance schemes and integrates multiple stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive and efficient mechanism for crop insurance.
Key Features of PM Fasal Bima Yojana
1. Premium Subsidy:
– Under PMFBY, the premium rates are very low for farmers, and they are required to pay only a nominal amount.
– The remaining premium is equally shared by the central and state governments.
2. Coverage:
– PMFBY provides coverage for all stages of the crop, including pre-sowing to post-harvest losses.
– It covers all food crops, oilseeds, and horticultural crops.
3. Comprehensive Coverage:
– The scheme provides coverage for yield losses, prevented sowing, post-harvest losses, localized calamities, etc.
– It also covers losses due to crop damage by animals, birds, and fish.
4. Timely Payments:
– In case of crop damage, the insurance companies are bound to settle the claims within two months of completion of the crop cutting experiment.
5. Technology Integration:
– PMFBY integrates technology for quick estimation of crop losses, timely payouts, and transparency in the claim settlement process.
– Remote sensing satellites and drones are used for faster assessment of crop damage.
6. Use of Digital Platforms:
– To enhance transparency and efficiency, the scheme encourages the use of digital platforms for enrollment, premium payment, and claim settlement.
7. Awareness Campaigns:
– The government conducts awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the benefits of crop insurance and the procedures to avail the scheme.
How to Enroll in PM Fasal Bima Yojana
1. Eligibility:
– All farmers growing notified crops in a notified area are eligible for the scheme.
– Small and marginal farmers are given higher premium subsidy.
2. Enrollment Process:
– Farmers can enroll themselves through their respective financial institutions, Common Service Centers (CSCs), or online portals.
– They need to provide details of their crops, land holdings, and other relevant information.
3. Premium Payment:
– After enrollment, farmers need to pay their share of the premium to avail of the benefits of the scheme.
– The premium amount is calculated based on the crop type, sum insured, and area under cultivation.
4. Crop Cutting Experiments (CCE):
– Crop yield is assessed through Crop Cutting Experiments (CCE) to determine the extent of crop damage.
– The data from CCE is used to calculate the insurance payouts.
Claim Settlement Process
1. Filing a Claim:
– In case of crop loss, farmers need to inform the insurance company within a specified time period.
– They need to provide necessary documents and proof of crop damage.
2. Assessment of Loss:
– The insurance company conducts a survey to assess the extent of crop loss and the reasons for the same.
– Satellite imagery and drones are also used for assessment in some cases.
3. Claim Settlement:
– After the assessment, the insurance company settles the claim within two months of the completion of the Crop Cutting Experiment (CCE).
– The payout is directly credited to the farmer’s bank account.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the purpose of PM Fasal Bima Yojana?
– PMFBY aims to provide financial support to farmers in the event of crop failure due to natural calamities, pests, or diseases.
2. Who is eligible for PMFBY?
– All farmers growing notified crops in a notified area are eligible for the scheme.
3. How can farmers enroll in PM Fasal Bima Yojana?
– Farmers can enroll through their financial institutions, Common Service Centers (CSCs), or online portals by providing necessary details.
4. What crops are covered under PMFBY?
– PMFBY covers all food crops, oilseeds, and horticultural crops.
5. How are insurance premiums calculated under PMFBY?
– Premiums are calculated based on the type of crop, sum insured, and area under cultivation.
6. How are claims settled under PM Fasal Bima Yojana?
– Claims are settled within two months of completion of Crop Cutting Experiments (CCE) based on the extent of crop loss.
7. Are prevented sowing and post-harvest losses covered under PMFBY?
– Yes, PMFBY provides coverage for prevented sowing, post-harvest losses, and other related risks.
8. How does technology play a role in PMFBY?
– Technology is integrated into the scheme for quick assessment of crop losses, timely payouts, and transparency in the claim settlement process.
9. How can farmers track their insurance claims under PMFBY?
– Farmers can track their insurance claims through the PMFBY portal or by contacting their insurance company.
10. What are the benefits of PM Fasal Bima Yojana for farmers?
– PMFBY provides financial security to farmers in case of crop loss, promotes risk management in agriculture, and ensures timely compensation for losses.
In conclusion, PM Fasal Bima Yojana is a significant initiative by the Government of India to safeguard the interests of farmers and provide them with a safety net against crop losses. By understanding the key features, enrollment process, claim settlement mechanism, and frequently asked questions about the scheme, farmers can make informed decisions and avail the benefits of crop insurance effectively.
