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Tamil Nadu Farmers Urge Deadline Extension Amid Rising Crop Insurance Demand

Farmers in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram and Madurai districts are pushing for an extension of the November 15 crop insurance deadline. Registration numbers have skyrocketed this year as farmers recognize the importance of protection after repeated crop failures. Many cultivators are still in the process of applying and need more time to secure their coverage. The government faces calls to both extend the deadline and improve the compensation assessment process.

Key Points: TN Farmers Seek Crop Insurance Deadline Extension in Ramanathapuram Madurai

  • Ramanathapuram sees insurance coverage jump from 11,660 to 36,889 hectares this year
  • Madurai farmers insured 410 hectares compared to just 70 last season
  • Farmers cite repeated crop failures from floods, droughts and pest attacks
  • Concerns raised over compensation denial due to procedural assessment lapses
2 min read

Farmers in TN's two districts seek extension of Nov 15 crop insurance deadline

Farmers in Ramanathapuram and Madurai districts demand extension of November 15 crop insurance deadline as registrations surge due to weather losses and pest attacks.

"Many are still in the process of applying. Since we have faced continuous losses in the past few years, farmers now realise the need for insurance protection. - Ramanathapuram Farmer"

Chennai, Nov 11

The farmers across Ramanathapuram and Madurai districts have urged the state government and the Centre to extend the crop insurance registration deadline beyond November 15, citing increased enrolment and persistent losses from erratic weather conditions in recent years.

In Ramanathapuram district, officials said 1,04,843 hectares have been reconciled under the Samba paddy cultivation so far, out of which 36,889 hectares have been registered for insurance this year -- marking a significant jump from 11,660 hectares during the same period last year.

In Madurai, 6,524 hectares of Samba crop area have been reconciled, with 410 hectares insured this year, compared to just 70 hectares last year.

According to farmers, the surge in enrolment reflects growing awareness about the importance of insurance after repeated crop failures caused by floods, droughts, and pest infestations.

"Many are still in the process of applying. Since we have faced continuous losses in the past few years, farmers now realise the need for insurance protection. The government should extend the deadline by a few more days," said a farmer from Ramanathapuram district.

However, farmer representatives have raised concerns over unresolved issues in the assessment and compensation process. A senior association member said that several farmers in Kamuthi who suffered visible damage last year were denied compensation due to procedural lapses.

"It is essential that the authorities streamline assessment and ensure timely and fair disbursal of compensation," the representative said.

In Madurai, the rise in enrolment has been attributed to past experiences of pest attacks and crop losses. "Last season's failures have taught us a lesson. This year, farmers are prioritising insurance as a safeguard," said K. Karuppanan, a farmer from the region.

Agriculture Department officials confirmed that registrations have risen notably compared to last year, though limited awareness continues to be a hurdle in some pockets. "Many farmers are still unaware of the benefits. We plan to conduct outreach programmes to boost participation before the deadline," said a senior official.

With the November 15 deadline fast approaching, farmer associations have reiterated their plea for a brief extension, hoping that more cultivators can secure their livelihood through insurance coverage this Samba season.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's good to see more farmers opting for insurance, but the real issue is the compensation process. My uncle in Kamuthi faced crop damage last year but didn't get any compensation due to "procedural issues." What's the use of insurance if claims are rejected?
D
David E
Working in agricultural development, I've seen how crucial insurance is for small farmers. The 300% increase in enrollment in Ramanathapuram shows farmers are learning from past climate shocks. Extension of deadline would help consolidate these gains.
K
Kavya N
The government should not only extend the deadline but also simplify the application process. Many farmers in rural areas don't have internet access or the technical knowledge to complete online forms. On-ground support is needed.
A
Arjun K
This is a positive development! Farmers are finally understanding the importance of insurance after facing repeated losses. The government should support this momentum by extending the deadline and ensuring smooth claim settlements. Jai Kisan! 🙏
S
Sarah B
While I support the extension request, I hope the government also addresses the awareness gap mentioned in the article. Outreach programs should be continuous, not just before deadlines. Financial literacy is key for sustainable farming.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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