CM Gehlot Announces Relief Package to Bollworm-Affected Farmers Within 10 days

In a significant development, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has announced that farmers in the Hanumangarh and Ganganagar districts of Rajasthan, who have been grappling with the devastating outbreak of pink bollworm in their cotton crops, will receive much-needed relief within the next 10 days. The decision was made during a comprehensive review meeting on crop loss convened by the Chief Minister on Wednesday.

The outbreak of pink bollworm has inflicted extensive damage across a staggering 2.56 lakh hectare area in both districts, significantly impacting the livelihoods of approximately 73,000 farmers. The situation has raised concerns about the economic well-being of these agricultural communities.

Under the ambit of the crop insurance scheme, farmers are entitled to compensation when the production of cotton crops is adversely affected due to the outbreak of any insect disease. The compensation will be determined based on the average yield figures, offering a lifeline to the beleaguered farming community.

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During the meeting, Chief Minister Gehlot expressed deep empathy for the farmers suffering due to crop failure. He highlighted that this year has seen an unusual pattern of crop damage attributed to abnormal rainfall in several districts of Rajasthan. In response to this dire situation, Gehlot has issued clear instructions to expedite relief efforts by conducting a comprehensive girdawari, or field inspection, within the next 10 days.

It was further disclosed during the meeting that, in accordance with the State Disaster Response Fund rules, an agricultural input grant amounting to Rs 968.48 crore will be disbursed to 10.61 lakh eligible farmers who have been affected by natural disasters, including floods, droughts, hailstorms, frost, and cold waves during the years 2022-23 and 2023-24.

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Furthermore, insurance claims worth a substantial Rs 1,895 crore for the Rabi season of 2022-23 have already been distributed to the farmers. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of promptly disbursing pending insurance claims for the same Rabi year, thereby ensuring that the affected farmers receive the financial support they urgently require.

In this time of adversity, the Rajasthan state government has reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being of its farming community. The forthcoming relief measures are expected to ease the burden on farmers grappling with the challenges posed by the pink bollworm outbreak and irregular weather patterns, offering them a glimmer of hope as they work towards rejuvenating their agricultural pursuits.

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