Odisha Govt Extends Deadline for Farmers to Report Crop Damage to January 1

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has extended the deadline for farmers to report crop damage caused by last week’s unseasonal rains and claim compensation to January 1, 2025. This marks the second extension, with the original deadline set for December 29 and previously extended to December 31.

The decision, announced on Monday, aims to ensure that all affected farmers, including both insured and uninsured, have ample time to report their losses. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the importance of this extension during his visits to Nayagarh, Gajapati, and Ganjam districts, where he assessed the extent of the crop damage firsthand.

Following the Chief Minister’s instructions, the state government requested the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment to grant an extension for reporting crop loss. Responding favorably, the Central government extended the reporting period by three days, allowing farmers until January 1 to notify insurance companies of their claims.

In a press communiqué issued on Monday, the Odisha government reiterated its commitment to assist all affected farmers, ensuring that no eligible individual is left behind.

Chief Minister Majhi expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan for their supportive stance. “This sympathetic attitude from the Central government reflects their commitment to the well-being of Odisha’s farmers,” said the Chief Minister.

The unseasonal rains that lashed the state during the last week caused extensive damage to standing crops and harvested produce, impacting farmers across multiple districts. In addition to the Chief Minister’s visits, other state ministers have toured the affected regions to evaluate the damage and ensure timely assistance.