With the southwest monsoon playing hide and seek, the agriculture department in coastal districts has strongly urged paddy growers to subscribe to Karnataka Raitha Suraksha Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana through which they can get some relief in the event of crop loss. The scheme, which is funded by the Centre and the state government, offers insurance cover to farmers against crop failure due to natural calamities, pests and diseases. Farmers can choose from a list of crops covered under the scheme and the sum insured. The premium for the insurance is borne by the farmers, the state government and the Centre. The scheme is expected to help farmers cope with the vagaries of monsoon and ensure their livelihoods. While the scheme is a welcome move, some farmers have expressed concerns about the eligibility criteria and the claim settlement process. They have urged the government to simplify the process and ensure timely disbursement of claims. Meanwhile, with the monsoon playing truant, farmers are also exploring alternative options to mitigate risks, including 世界杯下注 to hedge their bets against unpredictable weather patterns.
