In a significant move to support the agricultural community, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, on Monday, provided substantial relief to farmers who suffered losses during the year 2025-26.96 lakh farmers through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. This financial assistance is aimed at compensating for the crop damage caused by severe storms, unseasonal rainfall, and hailstorms that occurred during the third and fourth weeks of March 2026.
Impact of Natural Disasters in 13 Districts
The state government took this step following detailed reports of crop damage exceeding 33 percent in 13 specific districts of Bihar. The affected regions include Saharsa, Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, Madhepura, Araria, Begusarai, Purnia, Darbhanga, Kishanganj, Khagaria, Madhubani, Supaul, and Bhagalpur. Addressing the gathering at his official residence, the Chief Minister emphasized that natural disasters like unseasonal rain and hailstorms, driven by climate change, frequently cause significant distress to the farming community. He reiterated that the state government is committed to providing all possible assistance to disaster-affected farmers using its own resources.
Financial Provisions and Central Support
The Chief Minister highlighted that the Krishi Input Subsidy Scheme isn't merely a financial aid program but a medium to instill confidence and stability among farmers. To ensure rapid relief, the Disaster Management Department initially provided 200 crore rupees. 71 crore rupees was sanctioned. 71 crore rupees has been made for farmer assistance. Samrat Chaudhary also noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, farmer welfare and the empowerment of the agricultural sector are being given top priority. He mentioned that the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi funds were also transferred to farmers' accounts just two days prior, while he urged farmers to enroll in the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to better manage risks associated with natural calamities.
Revival of the Sugarcane Industry
Following the subsidy distribution, the Chief Minister conducted a review meeting of the Sugarcane Industry Department. He issued directives to officials to take necessary steps for the revival of the sugar industry, promotion of investment, and increasing farmers' income. He pointed out that Bihar holds immense potential for the development of sugarcane-based industries. A comprehensive action plan is being prepared to revive closed sugar mills and establish new ones. Specific instructions were given to accelerate industrial activities in areas with closed mills, including Rayyam, Sakri, Sasamusa, Marhaura, Motipur, Samastipur, Chakia, Chanpatia, and Motihari, while this initiative is expected to create local employment opportunities and provide direct benefits to farmers.
Focus on Sugarcane Production and Policy
The Chief Minister stressed the need for a special action plan to develop the Champaran region into one of the country's leading sugarcane production hubs. Efforts will be focused on increasing sugarcane production, improving productivity, and providing better market access to farmers. Under the Bihar Sugarcane Industry Promotion Policy 2026, the government aims to attract maximum investment, encourage investors, and modernize the sugar industry. The state government remains dedicated to the prosperity of farmers, industrial growth, and strengthening the rural economy through the holistic development of the sugarcane sector.