Jaipur: Farmer unions in Rajasthan have demanded that the govt immediately stop deducting premiums under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), citing widespread Kharif crop damage due to excessive monsoon rains. They said the sowing period for crops such as moong, millet, urad, soybean, sorghum, maize, peanuts, guar, moth, chola, and sesame has ended, leaving no scope for recovery. “Compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana can only be provided based on crop cutting. Despite this, the govt is collecting premiums from farmers’ bank accounts for insurance companies. When it is not possible to provide insurance to farmers, the govt should immediately halt the deduction of premiums,” said Kisan Mahapanchayat national president Rampal Jat. In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jat also raised concerns over the forced sale of Nano Urea. Citing research by Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, he claimed its use led to reduced yield. “Farmers do not wish to purchase Nano Urea bottles. However, cooperative societies and licensees are forcing farmers to buy it to get regular urea,” he wrote. Jat said multiple memorandums to the state and central govts have gone unanswered. A complaint to the Competition Commission of India on Oct 12, 2022 also drew no action. “Even though the rule of law exists, farmers are continuously being compelled to purchase Nano Urea unlawfully. Govt circulars to stop this compulsion have had no effect. Farmers’ homes are piling up with Nano Urea bottles, causing unnecessary expenses and worsening their financial situation after crop losses,” he added.
Raj farmers demand suspension of crop insurance premium deductions | Jaipur News
