Crop Loss Compensation: Government Steps in to Support Farmers

Key Highlights

• Compensation for crop loss due to floods.
• Assistance is provided for planting the next crop.
• 24/7 control room set up for reporting.
• Compensation rates up to ₹17,000 per acre.
• Assessment of damage by local agricultural officers.

The Bihar government has announced a crop loss compensation scheme to help farmers recover from recent flood damage. Due to excessive rains and floods, crops in many areas have been destroyed, causing significant financial loss to farmers. The government has now taken steps to not only compensate for the damage but also assist farmers in planting their next crops. A dedicated control room has been established for farmers to report crop damage and receive support.

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Reporting Crop Loss: 24/7 Control Room Set Up

To make it easier for affected farmers to report their crop losses, the government has set up a 24/7 control room at Krishi Bhawan, Mithapur. Farmers can contact the control room anytime to inform authorities about the damage. The Bihar Agriculture Department has assigned key officers to manage the situation, ensuring farmers receive prompt help. Nitin Kumar Singh, the Agriculture Director, is the senior nodal officer, with Sushil Kumar, Joint Director (Statistics), supervising operations.

Assessment of Crop Damage

During a recent inspection of flood-affected districts, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar directed officials to assess the damage thoroughly. Agricultural officers from the district, sub-divisional, and block levels have been instructed to evaluate the extent of damage to both food crops and horticultural crops, including fruits and vegetables. They are required to submit their reports within 24 hours to expedite the compensation process.

Compensation for Standing Crops and Assistance for Future Sowing

Farmers affected by the floods will not only receive compensation for the loss of standing crops but also financial assistance for planting their next crops. District Agriculture Officers have been instructed to ensure that the compensation reaches farmers quickly. This support will help farmers resume their agricultural activities despite the challenges posed by floods.

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Damage and Compensation Details

The recent floods have severely impacted the lives of people in Bihar. The rising water levels of rivers, especially the Ganga, have flooded fields, damaging crops and displacing farmers. In response, the Bihar government has devised a compensation plan based on the type of land and crop damage:

Additionally, the minimum compensation rates are set as follows:

• Non-Irrigated Farms: ₹1,000
• Irrigated Farms: ₹2,000
• Multi-Crop Farms: ₹2,500

Compensation will be provided for up to two acres of land. This measure ensures that the worst-affected farmers receive adequate financial relief.

Future Support for Farmers

Bihar's government is also taking steps to help farmers resume cultivation for the next season. The assistance provided will help with seeds, fertilizers, and other essential resources for the next crop cycle. The Chief Minister has asked officials to stay alert and continue monitoring the situation to prevent further damage.

How Farmers Can Apply for Compensation

Farmers affected by the floods can contact the control room for guidance on reporting their losses and applying for compensation. Local agricultural officers will assist in collecting the necessary details and verifying crop damage. In addition, farmers are encouraged to stay informed about the status of their compensation through regular communication with local agricultural offices.

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CMV360 Says

The Bihar government's timely intervention to compensate farmers for their crop losses is a much-needed relief for those affected by the floods. The financial assistance, coupled with support for the next crop cycle, will help the farmers to recover and continue their agricultural activities. By setting up a 24/7 control room and mobilizing the local officers, the government aims to ensure that no farmer is left behind during these challenging times. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural community and rebuilding livelihoods in flood-affected regions.