A Lifeline for Farmers
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is back in 2025, bringing hope to farmers across India. This government scheme, started in 2016, helps protect crops from risks like floods, droughts, pests, and diseases. With farming being risky due to unpredictable weather, this insurance plan offers financial support if crops fail. The government has set aside Rs. 69,515 crore until 2025-26 to support farmers, with over Rs. 1.70 lakh crore already paid in claims over eight years. Farmers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan are rushing to sign up before the deadline.
Why This Scheme Matters
PMFBY is a game-changer because it keeps premiums low. Farmers pay only 2% for kharif crops, 1.5% for rabi crops, and 5% for commercial or horticultural crops. The rest is covered by the government, making it affordable. It covers losses from natural calamities like hailstorms, landslides, or pest attacks, ensuring farmers don’t lose everything. With technology like satellite imaging and remote sensing, claims are processed faster and fairly. In 2025, Rs. 3,200 crore was recently given to 30 lakh farmers, showing the scheme’s impact.
How to Apply Easily
Applying for PMFBY is simple and can be done online or offline. Farmers can visit the official website pmfby.gov.in, click on “Farmer Login,” and sign up with their Aadhaar or mobile number. After logging in, they fill in details about their crops and land. Documents like Aadhaar, bank details, and land records are needed. For those not comfortable online, banks, Common Service Centres (CSCs), or local agriculture offices help with registration. The deadline for kharif crops in 2025 is July 31 in most states, but it may vary, so check locally.
Steps to Follow for Claims
To claim insurance, farmers must report crop loss within 72 hours of the incident. This can be done via the PMFBY helpline, the Crop Insurance App, or at a nearby CSC. Upload photos of damaged crops and fill out a form with details. Claims are checked using technology like drones for accuracy, and money is sent directly to bank accounts. Here’s a quick guide:
| Step | Action | Where to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Report loss in 72 hours | Helpline, App, CSC |
| 2 | Submit loss details and photos | Online portal or CSC |
| 3 | Wait for verification | Done by officials |
| 4 | Get money in bank | Direct transfer |
This process ensures quick help for farmers.
Who Can Join and Benefits
All farmers growing notified crops in notified areas can join, whether they own land or are tenants. It’s voluntary, so even those with Kisan Credit Cards can choose to enroll. Benefits include financial safety, encouragement to try new farming methods, and support for loans. Over 29 crore farmers have insured their crops since 2016, with Rs. 95,000 crore in claims paid. In Assam, farmers growing crops like paddy or jute on up to 1 hectare pay just Rs. 1 for insurance, thanks to state subsidies.
Act Now to Secure Your Future
With the July 31, 2025, deadline for kharif crops nearing in many states, farmers should act fast. PMFBY is a trusted way to protect crops and income, helping farmers recover from losses and keep farming. Always use official websites or trusted centers to avoid scams. Share this with fellow farmers to ensure everyone benefits. Visit pmfby.gov.in or call the helpline for details, and secure your crops today