Gujarat Govt Announces Rs 630 crore Relief Package for Kharif Crop Damage

Heavy rains in 14 districts of Gujarat had resulted in widespread crop loss. The state government conducted a survey of the regions and discovered that 2,554 villages were affected. Recognizing this situation CM Patel said in a tweet on Friday, “State govt is determined to support its farmers. The assistance package will assist over 8 lakh farmers whose crops have been damaged across an area of approximately 9.12 lakh hectares of land.”

This year, there was widespread crop loss due to heavy rains in 14 districts. According to a media release, the state government received reports of crop loss in 2,554 villages across 50 talukas in the districts of Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Panchmahal, Navsari, Valsad, Dang, Tapi, Surat, Kutch, Junagadh, Morbi, Porbandar, Anand, and Kheda. During the kharif season, the affected districts primarily grow groundnut, cotton, paddy, and other oilseeds.

Along with Gujarat, many parts of Goa experienced heavy rain. According to the zonal agricultural officer, many farmers have already filed claims for crop damage. He also attributed this to an inefficient drainage system, which caused yields to remain waterlogged for an extended period of time. As a result, the farmers' livelihood is in jeopardy.

Following a thorough review of these reports and taking into account the presentations made by farmers, farmers' organisations, and public representatives, the chief minister took a cautious approach and announced a 630.34 crore rupee assistance package, according to the statement.

State Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel detailed the assistance package, stating that crop losses in agricultural crops (except banana leaf) will be eligible for Rs 6,800 in SDRF and State budget assistance up to a maximum of two hectares.

A total of Rs 30,000 per hectare assistance will be provided for crop loss up to a maximum of two hectares. A significant decision has also been made that a minimum of Rs 4,000 will be paid regardless of the amount of damage.

In such cases, the amount of assistance payable in addition to the SDRF assistance will be paid from the State Budget, according to a statement.

Farmers will need to apply online and provide required documentation at the nearest e-Gram centre that provides financial services platform that offers banking and financial services to India's unbanked population.