Relief assistance of Rs 22, 733 cr provided to 1.36 cr farmers in Gujarat over last decade
Gandhinagar, June 16
Over the past decade, changing weather patterns have led to challenges such as unseasonal rainfall, heavy rains, and cyclones for farmers across Gujarat. During these difficult times, the State Government has adopted a sensitive and farmer-centric approach, extending timely financial assistance to support farmers, a release said.
Over the period from 2015-16 to 2025-26, more than 1.36 crore farmers affected by natural calamities received assistance worth Rs. 22,733 crore under various agricultural relief packages implemented by the Gujarat Government. The assistance served as a vital support for lakhs of farmers, enabling them to cope with crop losses caused by natural disasters.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the State Government has reinforced its farmer-centric approach by ensuring prompt relief and support to farmers in times of adversity.
For Devarajbhai Solanki, a farmer from Adariyana village in Dasada taluka of Surendranagar district, last year's unseasonal rainfall proved devastating. The complete loss of his chickpea crop plunged his family into financial uncertainty, a release said.
Recalling the experience, Devarajbhai says, "When I reached my farm in the morning, the entire crop had been destroyed. For a moment, it felt as though the whole year would be filled with hardship. However, the Rs 44,000 assistance received under the State Government's agricultural relief package became a ray of hope for our family. It enabled us to sow our fields again and continue farming with renewed confidence."
For lakhs of farmers like Devarajbhai, the State Government's compassionate and farmer-centric approach has provided timely support during difficult times, helping them overcome challenges.
Responding swiftly to widespread crop losses caused by heavy rainfall and unseasonal weather events, the State Government took a landmark decision in 2025-26 by extending direct financial assistance of Rs. 10,337 crore to more than 36.74 lakh farmers across Gujarat.
Recognised as one of the largest agricultural relief packages in the State's history, this unprecedented support provided crucial financial relief to affected farmers, helping them recover from losses.
Of the total assistance of Rs 22,733 crore provided over the last ten years, Rs 15,829 crore was disbursed from SDRF funds, while Rs 6,904 crore was paid from the State Government's budget.
Thus, the above figures demonstrate that the State Government has consistently accorded the highest priority to farmers' welfare during every natural calamity.
As a result, Gujarat's food providers are farming today with greater confidence, assured that the Government stands firmly by their side in every moment of adversity.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative by the Gujarat government, but we need to look at the bigger picture. While relief packages help in the short term, long-term solutions like crop insurance reforms, better irrigation facilities, and climate-resilient seeds are equally important. The Rs 22,733 crore is substantial, but let's ensure it reaches the most vulnerable farmers without corruption. 🧐
As someone from a farming family in Saurashtra, I've seen how unpredictable weather has become. Cyclones, unseasonal rains... it's tough for our kisans. The government's quick response is commendable. My uncle received assistance during the 2023 floods and it helped him replant his cotton crop. Every little bit matters when you're feeding the nation. 👍
Impressive numbers - Rs 22,733 crore for 1.36 crore farmers over 10 years works out to about Rs 16,700 per farmer on average. But let's be honest, for many small farmers, that's just a drop in the ocean. The real question is: are we doing enough to address the root causes like climate change and water scarcity? Still, credit where it's due for timely disbursement. 🌾
Great work by CM Bhupendra Patel ji and the Gujarat government! But I do wonder, is the Rs 44,000 per farmer enough when crop yields are down by 50-60%? Many farmers in my village in Bhavnagar district are still struggling to recover from the 2024 cyclone. The system should also focus on mental health support for farmers who face such devastating losses. 🙏
J We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.