Farming in India has always faced big challenges due to floods, droughts, pests, and crop diseases. To address these risks, the government introduced the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. This scheme offers low-cost crop insurance and gives farmers a safety net against unexpected losses. It not only protects their income but also motivates them to adopt modern practices in agriculture.
This detailed guide explains the purpose, benefits, eligibility, application process, and exceptions of the scheme in a simple and clear manner. It will also touch upon the pradhan mantri fasal bima yojana list and why it holds significance for exams such as pradhan mantri fasal bima yojana upsc.
What is Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Scheme?
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana was launched on 18 February 2016. It is run by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. The aim is to cover farmers against natural calamities, pests, and crop diseases. The scheme supports more than 50 crore farmers and covers around 50 different crops.
This insurance is offered at a very low premium. Farmers pay only 2% for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for commercial crops. The rest of the premium is subsidized by the government. In states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and the North-East, the government pays the entire premium.
How does the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana scheme benefit farmers?
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is considered one of the most farmer-friendly schemes due to its simple structure and wide coverage. Farmers can avail themselves of its benefits at very low premium rates.
1. Affordable premium rates
Farmers only need to pay a 2% premium for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for commercial or horticultural crops. The government bears the remaining cost. For farmers in North-East states, Jammu, Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh, the entire premium is paid by the government.
2. Wide insurance coverage
The scheme protects farmers against natural disasters like floods, droughts, hailstorms, and also covers pest attacks and diseases. Even post-harvest losses due to cyclones or heavy rains are included for up to 14 days after harvesting.
3. Timely and fair settlement
One of the biggest advantages is the quick claim settlement. Compensation is generally processed within two months of harvest, helping farmers avoid debt and financial stress.
4. Use of modern technology
To ensure fairness, advanced tools like satellite imaging, drones, and mobile applications are used to assess crop losses. This reduces disputes and improves transparency in claim settlements.
Who is eligible to apply for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana scheme?
Not every farmer automatically qualifies for the scheme. To ensure that the right people benefit, there are specific eligibility criteria.
Conditions for eligibility
- All farmers, including sharecroppers and tenants, can apply if they are cultivating notified crops in notified areas.
- Applicants must have valid land ownership records or tenancy agreements.
- The insurance application should be submitted within two weeks of the sowing season.
- Farmers must not have already received compensation for the same crop loss from another source.
This system ensures genuine farmers get the intended support.
What situations are not covered under this scheme?
The scheme does not cover every situation. Farmers in non-notified areas are excluded, and losses that happen outside the crop cycle are not eligible. Claims are also rejected if damage is due to negligence or not following proper practices. Losses that go beyond the fixed limits or remain unverified may not be accepted. In addition, farmers who fail to pay their premiums on time cannot get any benefits. This ensures that support is given only for genuine and unavoidable losses.
What is the application process for PMFBY Scheme?
Farmers can apply for the scheme through both online and offline methods. The process is simple and designed for easy access.
Online registration process
- Visit the official portal of the scheme.
- Go to Farmer Corner → Guest Farmer option.
- Fill in details like name, mobile number, address, bank details, and land records.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- Choose either Pay Later or complete the premium payment immediately.
- Download the payment receipt for reference.
Offline application
Farmers can also apply through Common Service Centres (CSCs), banks, or other designated offices. This option is useful for farmers in rural areas with limited internet access.
Once the application is submitted, farmers can track their status on the official website.
What documents are required for applying?
The scheme requires farmers to provide basic identification and farming documents. Keeping these ready helps in faster application.
Documents needed
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Identity proof such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, or PAN card.
- Address proof like Aadhaar, electricity bill, or voter ID.
- Bank account details with IFSC code.
- Land records or tenancy certificates as proof of farming rights.
- A declaration form about the crop sown or intended to be sown.
What types of risks are covered under the scheme?
The scheme offers broad protection, divided into categories for better clarity.
| Type of Risk | Coverage Details |
| Yield Losses | Covers drought, floods, hailstorms, pests, diseases, fire, and lightning |
| Prevented Sowing | Compensation up to 25% if sowing is not possible due to adverse weather |
| Post-Harvest Losses | Protection for up to 14 days for crops stored in the field after harvesting |
| Localized Calamities | Covers damage from landslides, hailstorms, and other localized disasters |
This table shows that the scheme addresses almost every risk faced by farmers in agriculture.
Why is this scheme important for UPSC preparation?
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana UPSC is an important topic for students appearing in competitive exams. Questions often appear in subjects related to agriculture, economy, and government welfare programs.
The key areas that candidates must focus on include:
- Objectives of the scheme.
- Premium rates for different crops.
- Eligibility and exclusions.
- Technology used for claim settlement.
- Financial support structure and government subsidy.
Understanding these points helps candidates answer both objective and descriptive questions in exams.
Final Thoughts
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a major step towards securing the future of farmers. It provides financial protection, affordable premiums, quick compensation, and wide coverage against all major risks in farming. With the support of technology, the process has become transparent and farmer-friendly. The pradhan mantri fasal bima yojana list ensures clarity about who is eligible, and its importance in pradhan mantri fasal bima yojana upsc makes it a crucial subject for exam aspirants. By reducing risks and offering stability, this scheme builds trust and gives farmers the confidence to focus on better yields and sustainable agriculture.
FAQs
- Who can apply under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana?
Any farmer, tenant, or sharecropper with land in a notified area can apply. - What is the premium rate under this scheme?
2% for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for commercial crops. - Does the scheme cover post-harvest losses?
Yes, up to 14 days for crops kept in the field after harvest. - How is the claim amount processed?
Claims are usually settled within two months after harvest. - Why is this scheme important for UPSC?
It is a key government welfare scheme and is often asked in exams under agriculture and economy topics.
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