Bhubaneswar, 14 August (H.S.) In a significant relief for farmers, the Odisha government has extended the registration deadline for the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) for the Kharif season to August 31. The extension covers both loanee and non-loanee farmers.

The decision follows the Central Government’s approval of the state’s proposal to extend the cut-off date. Agriculture Department Principal Secretary Arabinda Padhee confirmed the development in a post on X.

As per the revised schedule, registrations will now be conducted even on Sundays and public holidays, with counters operating daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The earlier deadline was August 20.

The Cooperation Department said the extension aims to enable more farmers to enroll under the scheme, ensuring their crops are protected against potential losses from natural calamities.

The PMFBY provides financial security to farmers in the event of crop loss or damage caused by adverse weather, pests, or diseases. Authorities have urged eligible farmers to utilize the extended window to safeguard their produce this season.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda