M Nitish Kumar Transfers Rs 101 Crore to 1.52 Lakh Flood-Affected Farmers in Bihar
Patna, October 29, 2024 : Chief Minister Nitish Kumar participated in a significant program held at ‘Sankalp’, located at 1 Ane Marg, Patna, where a total of Rs 101 crore was directly transferred to the accounts of 1.52 lakh flood-affected farmers. The funds were disbursed under the Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme to provide relief to farmers who suffered crop loss due to the devastating floods earlier this year. This amount was transferred through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system as part of the first phase of the relief initiative.
Providing Timely Assistance to Farmers
In his address at the event, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized that the Bihar government is fully committed to supporting the farmers who have faced hardships due to the natural disaster. The transfer of Rs 101 crore marks the first phase of financial assistance aimed at compensating for the crop losses incurred by farmers during the floods. The DBT system ensures that the money is credited directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts, providing a transparent and efficient way to distribute funds.
“The disaster victims have the first right on the state treasury,” said CM Nitish Kumar, reaffirming his government’s commitment to the welfare of the farmers. The CM further assured that the remaining flood-affected farmers would receive similar compensation in the second phase of the scheme. He also gave clear instructions for the timely transfer of funds to ensure that no eligible farmer is left behind.
Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme: A Lifeline for Farmers
The Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme is a key initiative by the Bihar government to support farmers who face financial losses due to natural disasters like floods, droughts, or unseasonal rains. Under this scheme, farmers are compensated for the loss of their crops, enabling them to recover from the financial strain and continue their agricultural activities.
The amount transferred under this scheme is aimed at covering the costs for inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation, which are essential for the next planting season. The DBT system not only speeds up the process but also ensures that the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries without any intermediaries, reducing delays and fraud.
With floods having severely impacted several districts of Bihar this year, the Rs 101 crore distribution is seen as a crucial step in helping farmers get back on their feet. The first phase of this transfer includes farmers from the most affected areas, with more phases planned to cover the remaining flood victims.
Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
The use of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ensures full transparency in the disbursement of funds. Through DBT, the Bihar government can directly transfer the compensation amounts to the bank accounts of farmers, eliminating the need for intermediaries and reducing the chances of corruption or mismanagement. This system also allows for real-time tracking of funds, making it easier for both the government and the farmers to confirm the receipt of compensation.
The initiative is being praised for its efficiency and its focus on getting aid to those who need it most. CM Nitish Kumar’s administration has made it a priority to ensure that flood victims are provided with immediate relief, and this financial assistance is one of several steps being taken to mitigate the impact of the floods on agricultural production.
CM Nitish Kumar’s Continued Support for Farmers
At the event, CM Nitish Kumar reiterated that his government is dedicated to supporting farmers not only during times of disaster but also through long-term agricultural reforms. He assured that Bihar’s farmers will continue to receive government support to increase agricultural productivity and income, ensuring their prosperity.
The Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme is part of a broader strategy by the Bihar government to strengthen the agricultural sector, making it more resilient to natural calamities. In the coming months, additional relief measures are expected to be introduced to aid farmers in their recovery from the floods.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Recovery for Flood-Affected Farmers
The disbursement of Rs 101 crore to 1.52 lakh flood-affected farmers marks a critical step toward recovery for Bihar’s agricultural community. With the timely release of funds and the commitment to ensuring further transfers, CM Nitish Kumar’s government is demonstrating its resolve to support farmers in their time of need. This initiative not only provides immediate financial relief but also sets the foundation for Bihar’s farmers to rebuild their livelihoods and ensure a prosperous future.