5 Government Schemes for Farmers’ Crop Insurance (2025 Updated List)
Farmers face unpredictable challenges like extreme weather, pests, and market fluctuations. Crop insurance acts as a financial safety net, ensuring farmers can recover losses and sustain livelihoods.
In 2025, the Indian government has revamped existing schemes and introduced new initiatives to address climate change and technological advancements.
This article explores five key crop insurance programs, their benefits, eligibility, and application processes.
- 1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) 2025
- 2. Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)
- 3. Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme (CPIS) – Enhanced Version
- 4. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Accident & Crop Insurance Add-On
- 5. Climate-Resilient Crop Insurance Scheme (CRCI)
- Comparison Table: 2025 Crop Insurance Schemes
- FAQs
- Conclusion
1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) 2025
Overview
Launched in 2016, PMFBY remains a flagship crop insurance scheme. The 2025 updates focus on AI-driven claim processing and expanded coverage for horticulture crops.
Key Features
- Coverage: Yield losses due to natural calamities, pests, and post-harvest damage.
- Premium Rates: As low as 1.5% for Rabi, 2% for Kharif, and 5% for horticulture crops.
- Tech Integration: Satellite imagery and mobile apps (e.g., Crop Insurance App) for real-time monitoring.
- Claims: Settled within 20 days using automated damage assessment.
Eligibility
- All farmers, including sharecroppers and tenant cultivators.
- Mandatory for loanee farmers; optional for non-loanee.
How to Apply
- Visit the PMFBY portal or use the mobile app.
- Submit land records, Aadhaar, and bank details.
- Pay premium via Common Service Centers (CSCs) or online.
2025 Updates
- Coverage extended to exotic fruits and medicinal plants.
- Dedicated helpline (1800-2-660-700) for claim grievances.
2. Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)
Overview
RWBCIS compensates farmers based on adverse weather data (e.g., rainfall, temperature) instead of yield loss.
Key Features
- Coverage: Drought, unseasonal rains, humidity, and frost.
- Payouts: Linked to automatic weather station (AWS) data.
- Premium Subsidy: 50% for small/marginal farmers; 30% for others.
Eligibility
- Farmers in notified districts with AWS installations.
- Covers 50+ crops, including millets and pulses.
How to Apply
- Enroll via banks, insurance companies, or the RWBCIS Agri Portal.
2025 Updates
- 10,000 new AWS stations added for hyper-local data.
- SMS alerts for weather risks and policy updates.
3. Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme (CPIS) – Enhanced Version
Overview
Tailored for coconut farmers, CPIS 2025 covers tree damage and productivity loss.
Key Features
- Coverage: Cyclones, floods, pests (e.g., rhinoceros beetle).
- Sum Insured: Up to ₹15,000 per palm (based on age).
- Premium: 3% paid by farmers; rest subsidized.
Eligibility
- Coconut growers in 15 coastal states.
- Trees aged 4–60 years.
How to Apply
- Submit application through State Horticulture Departments.
2025 Updates
- Mobile app for photo-based damage reporting.
- 50% premium waiver for organic farmers.
4. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Accident & Crop Insurance Add-On
Overview
The KCC scheme now includes optional crop insurance and accidental coverage (₹2 lakh).
Key Features
- Coverage: Crop loss + accidental death/disability.
- Interest Subsidy: 2% for timely loan repayment.
- Premium: ₹500/year for insurance add-on.
Eligibility
- KCC holders with active loans.
How to Apply
- Opt-in during KCC renewal at your bank.
2025 Updates
- Seamless integration with PMFBY for double benefits.
5. Climate-Resilient Crop Insurance Scheme (CRCI)
Overview
New in 2025, CRCI incentivizes farmers to adopt climate-resilient crops (e.g., drought-resistant millets).
Key Features
- Coverage: Losses due to climate shocks (e.g., delayed monsoons).
- Premium Discounts: Up to 40% for using resilient seeds.
- Training: Free workshops on sustainable practices.
Eligibility
- Farmers in 100 climate-vulnerable districts.
How to Apply
- Register on the National Agro-Climate Portal.
Comparison Table: 2025 Crop Insurance Schemes
| Scheme Name | Coverage Scope | Premium Rate | Key Benefits | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PMFBY 2025 | Yield loss, post-harvest damage | 1.5%-5% | AI-driven claims, wide crop coverage | Online portal/CSC |
| RWBCIS | Weather-based risks | Subsidized (up to 50%) | Automatic payouts via AWS data | Banks/Agri Portal |
| CPIS Enhanced | Coconut palm damage | 3% (farmer’s share) | Mobile-based reporting | State Horticulture Dept. |
| KCC Add-On | Accidental + crop loss | ₹500/year | Loan interest subsidy | Bank during KCC renewal |
| CRCI 2025 | Climate-resilient crops | Up to 40% discount | Training + premium discounts | National Agro-Climate Portal |
Also Read: How to maximize tax benefits by health insurance
FAQs
Q1: Which scheme is best for small farmers?
A: PMFBY offers low premiums (1.5%) and covers most risks. Small farmers can also opt for KCC add-ons for bundled benefits.
Q2: How to check claim status online?
A: Use the Crop Insurance App (PMFBY) or state agriculture portals. Enter your policy number for updates.
Q3: What if weather station data is incorrect?
A: RWBCIS allows farmers to appeal with ground evidence (photos/videos) via the grievance portal.
Q4: Are organic farming premiums lower?
A: Yes! CPIS offers 50% premium waivers for organic coconut growers.
Q5: Can I enroll in multiple schemes?
A: Yes, but ensure the sum insured doesn’t exceed crop value (to avoid fraud).
Also Read: Top 7 Apps to book a health insurance
Conclusion
Choosing the right crop insurance depends on your region, crops, and risks. PMFBY and RWBCIS remain popular for broad coverage, while niche schemes like CPIS and CRCI cater to specific needs.
Leverage digital tools for hassle-free enrollment and claim tracking. Stay informed through government portals and advisories to maximize benefits.
Protect your harvest today – a secured farmer is the backbone of a thriving nation!
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