Crop Insurance schemes provide comprehensive financial risk coverage to Indian farmers against non-preventable natural risks, including droughts, floods, hailstorms, pest attacks, post-harvest losses, and localized calamities.

The flagship Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) offer one of the lowest farmer premium shares in the world: just 1.5% for Rabi crops, 2% for Kharif food crops, and 5% for commercial/horticultural crops, with the remaining premium heavily subsidized by Central and State governments.

Modern claim assessment integrates satellite remote sensing, drone surveys, and the National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP) for prompt claim disbursement directly into farmers' accounts.

Key Eligibility Parameters

All farmers growing notified crops in notified insurance unit areas.
Loanee farmers (automatically covered through KCC, with opt-out provision) and non-loanee farmers.
Sharecroppers and tenant farmers with formal or informal land tenancy records.

Essential Document Checklist

Aadhaar Card and Mobile Number
Land Records (RoR, 7/12 extract, Khasra, or tenancy agreement)
Sowing Certificate issued by Village Revenue Officer / Patwari
Active Bank Account Passbook linked to Aadhaar

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions Regarding Crop Insurance Schemes

What percentage of premium does a farmer pay under PMFBY?

Farmers pay only 2% of the sum insured for Kharif food and oilseed crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for annual commercial/horticultural crops. The remainder is co-funded by Central and State governments.

Within how many hours must a localized crop loss be reported?

Farmers must report localized crop damage (such as hailstorm, landslide, or inundation) within 72 hours of the event through the Crop Insurance App, toll-free helpline 14447, or their local agriculture office.

Are post-harvest losses covered under PMFBY?

Yes, coverage is available up to a maximum period of 14 days from harvesting for crops kept in "cut & spread" condition in the field for drying against unseasonal rains and cyclonic storms.

Can non-loanee farmers apply for crop insurance?

Yes, non-loanee farmers can enroll through Common Service Centers (CSCs), designated insurance agents, or directly online at pmfby.gov.in before the seasonal cut-off date.