The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved modifications and additional features for the ongoing Central Sector Schemes — Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS). These schemes will now continue till 2025-26 with a total allocation of ₹69,515.71 crore for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26.
Key Highlights:
1. Extension and Risk Coverage
The continuation of PMFBY and RWBCIS ensures coverage against non-preventable natural calamities for farmers across the country, supporting agricultural stability and resilience.
2. Technological Integration
To improve transparency and efficiency, the government has approved the creation of a Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT) with a corpus of ₹824.77 crore.
Yield Estimation System Using Technology (YES-TECH):
Utilizes remote sensing for yield estimation with at least 30% reliance on technology-based estimates.
Implemented in nine states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Madhya Pradesh has fully adopted technology-driven yield estimation.
Aims to phase out traditional Crop Cutting Experiments.
Weather Information and Network Data Systems (WINDS):
Plans to establish Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) at the block level and Automatic Rain Gauges (ARGs) at the panchayat level.
Will enhance local weather data accuracy with a fivefold increase in current network density.
Implementation will begin in 2024-25, allowing states additional preparation time.
3. Focus on the North-Eastern Region
The scheme prioritizes farmers in North Eastern states, with 90% of premium subsidies funded by the Centre. Flexibility in fund allocation allows for reallocation to other developmental projects if needed, considering the voluntary nature of the scheme and limited gross cropped area in these regions.
Impact and Implementation
These enhancements aim to streamline claim calculations, improve efficiency, and expand coverage. By leveraging technology and addressing regional challenges, the government seeks to strengthen agricultural insurance for Indian farmers, fostering greater resilience against climatic uncertainties.
