Gujarat Govt Announces A Relief of Rs 630 Crore To Help Rain-Hit Farmers

During the 2022 Kharif season, more than 8 lakh farmers reported crop losses as a result of the heavy rainfall across the state. The Gujarat government on Friday announced a relief package worth Rs 630 crore for more than 8 lakh farmers who suffered crop losses as a result of excessive rains during the 2022 Kharif season as assembly elections draw nearer.

Farmers in 14 districts experienced crop losses due to heavy floods in their farms, according to a statement issued by the government. A total of 2,554 villages in the districts of Chotta Udepur, Narmada, Panchamahal, Navsari, Valsad, Dangs, Tapi, Surat, Kutch, Junagadh, Morbi, Porbandar, Anand, and Kheda were represented by their farmers.

An estimated 9.12 hectares of affected agricultural land would be covered by this aid package from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the state budget. Farmers who have experienced farm losses of more than 33 percent will be covered by the package.

Crop losses for farmers across the country imply that food prices, which are already at their highest in almost two years, may remain higher rather than declining after harvest, as is customary. Millions of India's rural poor would be particularly hard hit, as a result of both the dismal harvest and the high prices.

Along with cereals, the prices of vegetables, milk, pulses, and edible oils are growing and are expected to stay high in the coming months, accounting for more than a quarter of the overall consumer price index.

Rs 6,800 per hectare would be paid to the farmers. However, the help will only cover a maximum of two hectares. For farmers who grow bananas, this support is worth approximately Rs 30,000 per hectare, with a two-hectare maximum.

Farmers must apply online to get the package, according to the statement.