On the occasion of Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day), Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid rich tributes to the former Prime Minister and messiah of farmers, Chaudhary Charan Singh, by announcing a significant financial relief measure for the state’s small and marginal farmers.
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The Announcement: Addressing a gathering of farmers, the CM announced a bonus on crop insurance premiums under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). This initiative is specifically designed to reduce the financial burden on farmers holding less than 5 acres of land. “A farmer’s peace of mind is the state’s prosperity. By subsidizing their insurance premiums further, we are ensuring that their hard work is protected against the vagaries of nature,” the CM stated.
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Key Details of the Bonus:
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Direct Benefit: The state government will provide an additional 10% to 15% subsidy (bonus) on the farmer’s share of the insurance premium.
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Eligibility: Targeted at small and marginal farmers registered on the ‘Meri Fasal-Mera Byora’ portal.
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Automated Credit: The bonus amount will be credited directly to the farmers’ verified bank accounts through the DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) system.
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Remembering Chaudhary Charan Singh: The CM highlighted that Haryana’s agricultural policies are deeply inspired by the vision of Chaudhary Charan Singh. He reiterated the government’s commitment to doubling farmers’ income through diversification and modern technology.
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Other Initiatives Launched: * Excellence Awards: Several progressive farmers from across Haryana were honored with “Kisan Ratna” awards for adopting organic farming and water-saving techniques.
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Mobile Soil Labs: The CM flagged off 10 new mobile soil-testing laboratories that will travel to remote villages to provide “on-the-spot” soil health cards.
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Political Context: The move is seen as a strategic outreach to the farming community, reinforcing the government’s “pro-farmer” image ahead of the upcoming local and state-level agricultural board elections.
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Farmer Reaction: While many farmers welcomed the premium relief, some farmer unions suggested that the government should also consider a complete waiver of interest on short-term crop loans during the winter season.
