Tomato farmers in Chittoor district are being urged to enroll in the crop insurance scheme as El Nino threatens agricultural output. The premium is set at 5%, or ₹3,750 per hectare, with the payment deadline extended to August 31.
Key Takeaways
- Premium is 5% – ₹3,750 per hectare
- Payment deadline extended to August 31
- Insurance covers unseasonal rain, extreme heat and other climate risks
Tomato growers in Chittoor district have been strongly advised to join the crop insurance scheme amid concerns that El Nino could disrupt the Kharif season. District Director (Horticulture) G. Satish warned that erratic weather may lead to crop loss and soil degradation.
Insurance Scheme Details
Under the Restructured Weather‑Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS), IFFCO‑Tokio General Insurance Company has been appointed to implement the program. The scheme will provide financial assistance to farmers if crops are damaged by unseasonal rainfall, extreme temperatures or other adverse climatic events.
Chittoor houses 10,419 tomato farmers cultivating the crop on 3,454 hectares. Participants must pay a 5% premium, amounting to ₹3,750 per hectare. Satish announced that the premium payment deadline has now been extended to August 31.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that timely insurance adoption can safeguard farmer incomes during El Nino‑driven erratic weather, preventing a cascade of loan defaults and rural distress in Andhra Pradesh.
"Insurance is essential to mitigate financial risk, especially during periods of climatic uncertainty," says agricultural economist Dr. Ajay Singh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What weather events does WBCIS cover?
A: Unseasonal rain, drought, flood, extreme heat and temperature fluctuations.
Q2: How can farmers enroll in the insurance?
A: Farmers can register through local insurance agents or the district agriculture office, either online or offline, by submitting required documents.
