UP govt sets July 31 deadline for kharif crop insurance; farmers must report damage within 72 hours

Lucknow, Jul 10 (PTI) To protect kharif crops against potential risks, the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday said it has set July 31 deadline for farmers to insure paddy, jowar, bajra, maize, urad, moong, tur, groundnut, soybean and sesame of this season.

Farmers can register crops through banks, common service centres, or the official portal -- www.pmfby.gov.in. For help with registration, claims, or documentation, they can contact the crop insurance helpline at 14447, it said in a statement.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), farmers pay only two per cent of the insurance premium, while the Central and state Governments bear the remaining premium, it said.

"The scheme, designed to offer financial protection against crop damage caused by drought, floods, storms, hailstorms, pest outbreaks, diseases, and even failed sowing, is active in all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh," the government said.

The scheme aims to ensure income stability for farmers, protect them from risks associated with crop production, facilitate agricultural loan repayments, and strengthen the agricultural economy.

The government noted that by paying a minimal premium, farmers receive comprehensive coverage and guaranteed support in the event of natural disasters.

Required documents for registration include Aadhaar, Khatauni, bank passbook, and crop details to be insured, it said, adding that farmers are told to ensure accurate declaration of crops and land details at the time of registration to avoid issues during damage assessment.

They also must report any crop damage within 72 hours to the nearest crop insurance centre, agriculture department office, or through the helpline (14447) to ensure timely claim processing.

Farmers have also been directed to keep Aadhaar, farmer ID, and relevant land/crop documents ready while contacting the helpline. The government urged all farmers to take full advantage of the scheme by getting their notified crops insured before July 31. PTI KIS HVA