Tomato farmers urged to avail crop insurance amid El Nino concerns in Chittoor

Speaking to the media here on Monday, District Director (Horticulture) G. Satish said that erratic climatic conditions could lead to crop losses and deterioration of soil health. “In view of the current climatic conditions, making insurance coverage is vital during the ongoing Kharif season,” he said.The official said that under the Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS), IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance Company has been selected to implement the programme. The insurance scheme would provide financial assistance to tomato growers in the event of crop damage caused by unseasonal rainfall, extreme temperatures and other adverse climatic conditions.Chittoor district has 10,419 tomato farmers cultivating the crop across 3,454 hectares. “Farmers availing the scheme are required to pay a premium of 5%, amounting to ₹3,750 per hectare. The deadline for premium payment has been extended till August 31,” Mr. Satish said. Published - July 27, 2026 06:56 pm IST