Constraints Hindering the Adoption of the Crop Insurance Scheme in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The present study attempted to identify the significant constraints impeding the successful adoption of a crop insurance scheme in the state. It was based on the primary data collected from a sample of 360 farmers (180 insured and 180 non-insured). The findings revealed that non-adopters face the most difficulty in adopting the scheme due to delays in the payment of indemnity. At the same time, adopters had the most challenging time due to a lack of awareness. Moreover, the study successfully brought out various customized suggestions based on the experiences of farmers that can improve the implementation of schemes, particularly in the state. It included creating more awareness among the farmers, carrying out more crop-cutting experiments, increasing the indemnity level, providing assured compensation to the farmers, and providing insurance against wild animals, etc. Targeted policy interventions are needed to refine and update crop insurance products to make them more effective and valuable in various farming situations.