Government of India has amended the
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to enhance transparency and accountability
within crop insurance
¨ Government of India has
amended the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to enhance transparency and
accountability within crop insurance.
¨
A primary focus of this
amendment is also on expediting the settlement of farmers' insurance claims.
¨
Under the revised rules,
it is mandatory for insurance companies to settle claims within 21 days.
¨
If insurance companies
fail to adhere to this timeframe, they are required to pay interest to the
farmers at a rate of 12 percent.
¨
This interest will be
added to the amount of the delayed claim.
¨
State governments are
also responsible for completing their respective tasks within the claims
settlement process in a timely manner.
¨
If states cause delays in
this process, they, too, will be required to pay interest to the farmers at a
rate of 12 percent.
¨ Farmers can register
their grievances regarding claim settlements through the 'Krishi Rakshak
Portal'.
¨ This portal provides
farmers with a facility to lodge complaints related to their insurance claims.
¨
To date, approximately
2.71 lakh complaints have been registered on this platform.
¨ The government is
currently reviewing these complaints. Wherever irregularities are detected,
strict action is being taken.
¨
The Minister also stated
that the government procures crops at the 'Minimum Support Price' (MSP).
¨
This policy ensures that
farmers receive a fair price for their produce.
¨
This year, the MSP for
wheat has been increased. The MSP for paddy has also been raised.
¨
Support prices for
oilseeds have also been enhanced. Additionally, the MSP for pulses has been
increased.
¨ The government has
reported a record volume of crop procurement during the current season.
¨ Officials have decided to procure pulses from farmers in large quantities.
¨ This includes 'Tur' (Arhar) dal. It also includes 'Masoor' dal. 'Urad' dal will also be included in the procurement process.
