How to Apply for Crop Insurance Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

In this blog post, you learn about how to apply for crop insurance under PMFBY and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

India’s agricultural sector relies heavily on weather conditions, making farmers vulnerable to natural calamities that can impact crop yield and income.

To help farmers mitigate this risk, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) in 2016.

This scheme offers comprehensive crop insurance to protect farmers from unexpected losses due to natural disasters, pests, and diseases.

Table of Contents

What is Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana?

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme by the Indian government, designed to provide affordable and comprehensive insurance cover to farmers against crop loss. PMFBY covers:

Natural Disasters: Floods, droughts, hailstorms, landslides, and other calamities

Pest Attacks: Coverage against pests that can destroy crops

Post-Harvest Losses: Losses due to calamities that occur after harvest

Yield Losses: Discrepancy in yield compared to expected production

Farmers benefit from premium subsidies on this insurance, making it affordable to a wider population.

Eligibility Criteria for PMFBY

To qualify for PMFBY, a farmer must:

1. Own Agricultural Land or work as a tenant farmer.

2. Grow Insured Crops as specified under the scheme.

3. Apply During the Crop Season: PMFBY applications are only open for specified Kharif (monsoon) and Rabi (winter) crop seasons.

4. Enroll Within the Deadline: Apply before the deadline for each season to ensure eligibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for PMFBY

Here’s a comprehensive look at the process:

1. Gather Necessary Documents

Aadhaar Card or any valid ID for identity verification.

Land Ownership Documents: Proof of agricultural land ownership or a lease agreement.

Bank Account Details: Required for premium payment and claim settlement.

Details of Crop Sown: Crop type, area, and season.

2. Register for the Scheme

Farmers can apply through several methods:

a) Online Application via the PMFBY Portal

Visit the official PMFBY website pmfby.gov.in.

Fill in the application form with details like crop type, land area, and season.

Upload the required documents.

Review and submit the form after verification.

b) Mobile App Application

Download the PMFBY Mobile App from Google Play Store or iOS App Store.

Complete the form and upload necessary documents.

Submit the application through the app for faster processing.

c) Application Through CSC (Common Service Centers)

Visit the nearest CSC with the required documents.

Request assistance to fill out the application form for PMFBY.

Submit your details and make the premium payment at the center.

d) Bank Application

Many banks offer PMFBY enrollment services.

Approach the bank with the documents and request PMFBY registration.

Bank officials will assist in completing the form, making it a straightforward option.

3. Pay the Premium

Once the form is filled and submitted, you need to pay a subsidized premium. This premium varies depending on the crop:

Kharif Crops: 2% of the sum insured

Rabi Crops: 1.5% of the sum insured

Annual Horticultural Crops: 5% of the sum insured

4. Receive the Acknowledgment Receipt

After paying the premium, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt or confirmation message. This receipt is crucial as it serves as proof of insurance.

5. Claim Process (If Necessary)

In case of crop loss, you can file a claim by reporting it through any of the methods you used to apply (online portal, mobile app, CSC, or bank).

Report the Crop Damage: Within 72 hours of damage, inform authorities to assess the damage.

Verification and Settlement: Officials will verify the loss, and if eligible, the compensation amount will be transferred to your registered bank account.

Benefits of PMFBY

Financial Security: Protects farmers from unexpected losses.

Low Premiums: Affordable premium rates ensure wider participation.

High Coverage: Covers yield loss, post-harvest loss, and more.

Direct Bank Transfer (DBT): Ensures transparency with direct claim payments to bank accounts.

Conclusion

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a reliable, low-cost insurance scheme that secures farmers against crop losses and provides essential financial stability. By following the steps outlined above, farmers can easily apply for PMFBY and benefit from its coverage against unforeseen risks. Through online methods and support centers, PMFBY is accessible, and it continues to support millions of Indian farmers by mitigating the impact of natural calamities on their livelihoods.

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FAQ

What is the last date to apply for PMFBY?

The last date varies by season and crop, with June 30th for Kharif crops and December 31st for Rabi crops being typical deadlines. Check official updates for specific dates each year.

Is PMFBY mandatory for all farmers?

PMFBY is optional for all farmers. However, farmers with loans for crops may be required by the lending institution to enroll in PMFBY.

How much is the premium for each crop type?

Premiums are subsidized and vary:
Kharif crops: 2%
Rabi crops: 1.5%
Annual horticultural crops: 5%

What crops are covered under PMFBY?

The list includes major cereals, oilseeds, horticultural crops, and other specified crops. The official PMFBY portal provides an updated list

What if my crop yield is not affected?

PMFBY is primarily an insurance scheme for crop loss. If no losses are incurred, there is no payout, as the premium is intended for risk coverage.

How do I know if my application is successful?

After submitting the application, you will receive a confirmation message or email. You can also check the application status on the PMFBY portal.