PM Modi writes a letter to farmers, promises aid

The letter states that there have been help for the farmers in the past but they have failed due to various reasons. The PM said that the incumbent government is set to provide the biggest help in terms of insurance.

The full text of the letter:

"My dear farmer brothers and sisters,

The news of 'Pradhanmanti Fasal Bima Yojana' must have already reached you. Farmers in our country have often felt at risk - at times from crop losses due to natural disasters, at times by falling market prices. Over the last eighteen months, we have taken several steps to help those of you who faced such difficulties.

There have been insurance schemes for farmers in the past as well. however, they were unsuccessful for various reasons - ranging from high premium rates to low claim value and non-coverage of localised crop loss. As a result, not more than 20 percent of farmers opted for crop insurance; and those who did faced many difficulties to get their due. Eventually, farmer's faith in insurance schemes eroded over time.

It was against this backdrop that we engaged in detailed consultations with States, farmers and insurance companies; following which I now place before my farmer brothers and sisters, the farmer-friendly Pradhanmantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

This Pradhanmantri Fasal Bima Yojana has the following highlights:

This is the biggest-ever government contribution to crop insurance

As a result, farmers will have to pay the lowest-ever premium rate

Government will bear the remaining financial burden - even if the Government's share exceeds 90%

There will be only one premium rate for each season for all foodgrains, oilseeds and pulses - removing all variation in rates across crops and districts within a season - Kharif: 2% only - Rabi: 1.5% only.

Farmers will get full insurance cover - there will be no 'capping' of the sum insured, and consequently, claimed amount will not be cut or reduced.

For the first time, inundation has been included under localised risk cover.

For the first time, post-harvest losses arising out of cyclone and unseasonal rain have been covered nationally.

For the first time, emphasis have been give to mobile ans satellite technology to facilitate accurate assessment and quick settlement of claims.
 
This scheme will be implemented from the forthcoming Kharif season. it is simple to join and offers maximum security. I welcome your wholehearted participation."