NewsFlash Daily™
23 March
Over 2 lakh farmers insured crops, but lakhs await compensation as only a fraction of claims have been cleared, and anger mounts across the district
Bidar: In a major agrarian distress story emerging from Bidar, thousands of farmers have alleged that they are being denied rightful crop insurance compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, despite paying premiums regularly.
Over 2 Lakh Farmers Insured, Majority Still Waiting
According to official data, 2,04,019 farmers in Bidar district had insured their crops last year under PMFBY. Farmers collectively paid nearly ₹9.90 crore as premiums. However, even after severe crop damage, a large number of farmers are yet to receive compensation.
Out of the total insured farmers, only around 78,000 farmers have received ₹36.74 crore, while nearly 1.38 lakh farmers remain unpaid, triggering widespread anger.
Massive Crop Loss, Minimal Relief
Farmers reported that unseasonal rains damaged crops across 4.5 lakh acres, resulting in losses exceeding ₹300 crore. Despite such heavy losses, the compensation released so far has been termed grossly inadequate and selective.
“We paid insurance every year with hope. Now, when crops are destroyed, we are not getting a single rupee,” farmers alleged.
Payments Made Through Official Channels
Farmers stated that they followed all procedures as directed by the Agriculture Department, depositing premiums through Agricultural Credit Cooperative Societies and banks, and receiving official receipts.
However, in times of crisis, they claim authorities have failed to deliver the promised financial protection, leaving them in distress.
District-Wide Crisis, Not Isolated Cases
This is not limited to a single village. Across the Bidar district, thousands of farmers are facing similar issues, raising serious concerns over the implementation of the crop insurance scheme.
While officials claim that around 80% disbursement has been completed, ground reports suggest that a significant section of beneficiaries has been left out.
Farmers Demand Accountability
The issue has sparked outrage among farmers, who are now questioning transparency and accountability in the system. Many allege that funds are being mismanaged or delayed without a clear explanation.
Growing Anger Against Authorities
Farmers who relied on insurance as a safety net after taking loans are now losing trust in the system. They have urged the government to immediately release pending compensation and ensure fair distribution.
