Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan took strict note of farmers’ complaints related to minimal returns of their crop insurance claims. Holding a high-level meeting in New Delhi today, Mr Chouhan addressed issues faced by farmers regarding the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and complaints related to claim payments. During the meeting, the Minister connected virtually with some farmers from Maharashtra and listened to their concerns directly. The Minister noted that some farmers received very less claim amounts including some as little as one rupee, three rupees, five rupees and 21 rupees. Taking stern cognizance, Mr Chouhan emphasized that the government will not allow this to continue. He has further ordered a thorough investigation into the matter with strict instructions to insurance companies and officials to rule in favour of the farmers. He also emphasized that the damage assessment must be done through an accurate system and review of guidelines. 

Addressing the issue of some states delaying or not paying their share of subsidies for months, the Minister directed officials to coordinate with all states to ensure timely deposit of their shares so that affected farmers can receive claim payments promptly. He added that states delaying payments should be charged 2 per cent interest.