Ministry of Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development
Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has announced the early release of the 21st installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. This initiative aims to support farmers in Jammu and Kashmir who have been affected by recent floods and landslides. The announcement was made via video conferencing from Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi, with significant participation from various officials and local representatives.
Financial Assistance for Affected Farmers
In this latest installment, a total of ₹171 crore has been directly transferred to the bank accounts of 8.55 lakh farmers, including 85,418 women farmers. This financial support is part of a broader effort to assist farmers in Jammu and Kashmir, who have now received a cumulative amount of ₹4,052 crore under the PM-KISAN scheme. The initiative is designed to provide immediate relief to those facing financial hardships due to natural disasters. Union Minister Chouhan emphasized the government’s commitment to standing by farmers during these challenging times, ensuring that no one is left to face the crisis alone.
Government Support and Rehabilitation Measures
During the event, Minister Chouhan highlighted the various support measures being implemented by the Central Government. He mentioned that the Union Ministry of Rural Development has approved ₹85.62 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-Gramin) for the reconstruction of approximately 5,100 houses that were damaged. This package includes financial assistance for constructing toilets and additional funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), aimed at helping families rebuild their homes. Furthermore, the minister announced an increase in MGNREGA workdays from 100 to 150 for affected households, pending a proposal from the Jammu and Kashmir government.
Revival of Agricultural Activities
Chouhan assured that the Centre is fully prepared to assist in the revival of agricultural activities in the region. This includes providing essential inputs such as seeds and fertilizers. He noted that the Jammu and Kashmir government has allowed sand sales under the policy “Jiska kheth, uski reth,” which translates to “the sand belongs to the one who owns the field.” Additionally, he mentioned that further funds could be allocated under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) based on requests from the Jammu and Kashmir government.
Insurance and Compensation for Farmers
The Union Minister also addressed the issue of compensation for insured farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). He stated that compensation would be provided as soon as the Jammu and Kashmir government submits its proposal, ensuring that funds are directly transferred to the accounts of affected farmers. The event concluded with remarks from Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Jammu & Kashmir Agriculture Minister Shri Javed Ahmad Dar, who expressed their gratitude for the timely intervention of the Central Government and acknowledged Chouhan’s proactive approach in addressing the needs of the affected communities.
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