Problems and suggestions of insured and non-insured farmers towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana in eastern Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a flagship crop insurance scheme launched by the Government of India in 2016 to mitigate risks faced by the farmers due to natural calamities and pests, while also promoting modern agricultural practices. This study was conducted in Gorakhpur and Basti districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, focusing on both insured and non-insured farmers of PMFBY. A total of 256 farmers were sampled, with an equal representation of 128 insured and 128 non-insured farmers. The study aimed to identify the problems faced by farmers in availing benefits from PMFBY and gather their suggestions for improving the scheme. It was found that insured farmers faced issues such as lack of individual assessment (81.25%), delays in receiving claims (65.63%), complicated banking procedures (65.63%) and low awareness (42.97%), while non-insured farmers struggled with documentation (73.44%) and delay in submitting the necessary documents (71.97%) these were most serious problems regarding PMFBY. Suggestions from farmers included enhancing awareness, improving transparency, ensuring timely disbursement of claims and extending coverage to all crops. These findings are highlighting the need for reforms in the scheme for implementation and to enhance its effectiveness involves.