Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Distributes Rs 113 Crore to Flood-Affected Farmers
In a significant move to support agricultural recovery, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday facilitated the transfer of more than Rs 113 crore through direct benefit transfer (DBT) to over two lakh affected farmers. This financial assistance is aimed at compensating for crop damage caused by severe floods due to excessive rainfall and the Motha cyclone last year.
Details of the Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme
The funds were disbursed under the Agriculture Input Subsidy Scheme, a state initiative designed to provide relief to farmers facing natural calamities. During a program held at the ‘Sankalp’ Hall at 1, Anne Marg in Patna, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized that this subsidy would enable farmers to invest in upcoming crops, thereby bolstering their livelihoods and agricultural productivity.
He reiterated the state government's unwavering commitment to assisting all flood-affected farmers, stating, “We are continuously working for the progress of farmers. We believe that flood victims have the first right to the state treasury.” This statement underscores the administration's priority on farmer welfare and disaster response.
Impact of Floods and Cyclone on Bihar's Agricultural Sector
The crop damage stemmed from heavy rainfall-induced floods and the Motha cyclone in 2025, which ravaged 13 districts across Bihar. The affected districts include Begusarai, Bhojpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Kaimur, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, East Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, and Supaul. Farmers from 53 blocks and 493 panchayats in these regions suffered significant losses, disrupting their agricultural cycles and economic stability.
According to a communique issued by the chief minister’s office (CMO), the agriculture department received online applications from farmers in all affected districts, with verification processes conducted at the district level. The direct transfer of Rs 113 crore to the bank accounts of 2.2 lakh farmers marks a streamlined and transparent approach to delivering aid, ensuring timely support without intermediaries.
Government Officials and Ceremony Highlights
The event was attended by key state officials, reflecting the collective effort in implementing this relief measure. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with Agriculture Minister Ramkripal Yadav, were present to witness the distribution. Other senior officials included Principal Secretary to the CM Deepak Kumar, Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit, Secretaries to the CM Anupam Kumar, Kumar Ravi, and Chandrashekhar Singh, as well as Director (Agriculture) Saurabh Suman Yadav.
Prior to the fund transfer, Agriculture Department Principal Secretary Narmadeshwar Lal welcomed Chief Minister Nitish Kumar by presenting him with a green plant, symbolizing growth and renewal in the agricultural sector. This gesture highlighted the government's focus on sustainable farming practices and environmental consciousness amidst recovery efforts.
This initiative not only provides immediate financial relief but also aims to strengthen Bihar's agricultural resilience against future climate-related challenges, fostering long-term economic stability for rural communities.
