Andhra Pradesh Doubles Down on Crop Insurance, Disburses ₹7,802 Crore

The Andhra Pradesh government announced a significant relief measure for farmers in the state. On March 6th, they released ₹1,294.58 crore as input subsidy to help farmers who suffered crop losses due to natural disasters. This financial aid will benefit over 11.57 lakh farmers.

Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy highlighted that Andhra Pradesh is unique in providing this support in the same season that crops are lost. This ensures farmers have the resources they need to plant again without delay. The subsidy amount is divided to address the specific needs of those impacted – ₹847 crore will be distributed to 6.96 lakh farmers in 103 mandals across seven districts who faced drought in 2023. The remaining amount will go to 4.61 lakh farmers who lost crops due to Cyclone Michaung in December 2023.

This initiative builds on the government's ongoing commitment to supporting farmers. In the last five years alone, they have disbursed a total of ₹3,262 crore as input subsidy to 34.41 lakh farmers who have been affected by natural calamities.

Also Read:- Retail Tractor Sales Report : Indian Tractor Industry Thrives with 11% Growth in February 2024

The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of losses caused by Cyclone Michaung, mentioning that the government took proactive steps to purchase 3,25,000 tonnes of discolored paddy from affected farmers. Additionally, he emphasized the financial assistance provided under the Rythu Bharosa scheme. This program benefits a substantial portion of the farming community, particularly those owning less than one hectare of land. It offers crucial support by covering up to 80% of their cultivation expenses.

Chief Minister Reddy further compared the current government's efforts to those of the previous administration. He stated that under the previous government's five-year term, only ₹3,411 crore was paid to 30.85 lakh farmers as crop insurance. In contrast, the YSRCP government has demonstrably increased this support, disbursing ₹7,802 crore to 54.55 lakh farmers under the same scheme so far. This signifies a significant expansion of the safety net provided to farmers in the event of crop failure.

Also Read:- PMFBY Farmer Enrollment Up by 27%, Claims Payout Hits Rs. 1,55,977 Crore

The announcement was made at a program held at the Chief Minister's camp office. Agriculture Minister K. Govardhana Reddy and Chief Secretary K.S. Jawahar Reddy were among the other dignitaries present.

Also Read:- Good News For Farmers: 80% Subsidy on Agricultural Equipment Empowers Jharkhand Farmers