Story perspectives

Punjab Farmers Demand Insurance Amid Climate Crisis

9/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

Punjab farmers seek a crop insurance policy due to heavy rains and floods impacting 300,000 acres and 125,000 people.
Farmers criticize the absence of a structured insurance scheme, citing high premiums and insufficient compensation under the PMFBY program.
The Punjab government prefers a state-specific insurance model over implementing PMFBY.
Experts warn that inadequate insurance frameworks may exacerbate agrarian distress amid climate-related disasters.
Pakistan's new Risk Coverage Scheme aims to support small farmers in underserved areas.

History

Historical Context

Launched in 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana aimed to provide crop insurance to Indian farmers, yet only 30% enrolled, revealing systemic issues. The ongoing floods affecting 300,000 acres in Punjab underscore the urgent need for effective insurance frameworks. Historical challenges, including the Green Revolution's impact on biodiversity and rising production costs, exacerbate agrarian distress, necessitating immediate reforms.

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Story summary

Punjab farmers seek a crop insurance policy due to heavy rains and floods impacting 300,000 acres and 125,000 people.
Farmers criticize the absence of a structured insurance scheme, citing high premiums and insufficient compensation under the PMFBY program.
The Punjab government prefers a state-specific insurance model over implementing PMFBY.
Experts warn that inadequate insurance frameworks may exacerbate agrarian distress amid climate-related disasters.
Pakistan's new Risk Coverage Scheme aims to support small farmers in underserved areas.

1 / 2