Farmers in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district breathed a sigh of relief as the state government extended the enrollment deadline for the flagship Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. This key crop insurance program, designed to protect against crop losses, now offers an extended period for submissions, addressing urgent pleas from the agrarian community.
Sirmaur, nestled in the Shivalik foothills, has faced a tough season with prolonged dry spells and unseasonal rains damaging standing crops. The PMFBY extension, announced by district officials, provides a crucial buffer, allowing farmers to secure coverage without rushing through paperwork.
Launched by the central government, the scheme covers a wide array of risks including prevented sowing, post-harvest losses, and localized calamities. Premiums are heavily subsidized, making it accessible for marginal farmers who form the backbone of Sirmaur’s agriculture.
‘We’ve been advocating for this for weeks. Many couldn’t complete enrollment due to poor internet and travel issues,’ noted Sunita Devi, president of the Sirmaur Kisan Sabha. The new deadline aligns with the peak application phase, expected to boost participation rates significantly.
State agriculture officials coordinated with national insurers to implement the change swiftly. Digital platforms have been upgraded for easier access, while awareness camps are being organized across blocks like Nahan and Renuka.
This isn’t the first time Himachal has tweaked deadlines for PMFBY; past extensions have led to record enrollments and timely claim settlements. In 2023 alone, Sirmaur farmers received over Rs 50 crore in compensations, highlighting the scheme’s impact.
As climate change intensifies risks, such measures are pivotal. Economists point out that insured farming reduces debt traps and encourages investment in better seeds and technology.
Farmers are advised to visit nearest cooperative societies or use the PMFBY portal with Aadhaar-linked details. This extension reinforces the government’s farmer-first approach, promising a more secure harvest season ahead in Sirmaur.
