Karnataka’s Aland MLA B.R. Patil says that nearly ₹300 crore approved under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has not fully reached farmers. He called for gram sabhas and swift administrative action to resolve the delays.
- Nearly ₹300 crore sanctioned, but the full amount hasn't reached farmers.
- Village accountants' negligence and unqualified officials denied benefits.
- Patil demands gram sabhas and strict action against intermediaries.
Background
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a flagship scheme aimed at protecting Indian farmers against natural calamities. In Aland taluk, Karnataka, the scheme approved close to ₹300 crore, yet many eligible farmers remain unpaid.
Patil’s Allegations
Speaking at a press conference in Kalaburagi on September 13, B.R. Patil highlighted that Aland has only three agriculture officers, leading to inadequate farmer service. He accused village accountants of lapses that denied insurance benefits to several eligible farmers, while the tahsildar defended the officials.
Patil cited Hadalagi and Yelasangi villages as examples, questioning why claims were settled in one village but not the other under similar conditions. He urged the Deputy Commissioner to take stringent action against any intermediaries meddling in the process.
Staff Shortage and Calls for Reform
The MLA noted that the Agriculture Department has faced a staffing shortage for nearly three decades, hampering effective implementation. He advocated for appointing agriculture graduates to key posts and upskilling existing staff to improve scheme delivery.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that delays in PMFBY payouts erode farmer confidence, push them towards high‑cost private insurance, and can exacerbate rural indebtedness, threatening food security in Karnataka.
"If insurance claims are not disbursed on time, farmer livelihoods plunge into crisis," said agricultural policy expert Dr. Anita Singh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why are claims settled in some villages but not others?
A: Variations often stem from irregularities by local accountants, documentation errors, and interference by intermediaries.
Q2: How can farmers get the pending payouts?
A: Filing complaints through gram sabhas, demanding prompt investigations by the district commissioner, and raising the issue publicly can accelerate resolution.
