The Goa government will reportedly compensate the losses of farmers caused by elephant Omkar under the Farmer Support Fund Scheme with a provision of Rs 40,000 per hectare after an inspection is carried out. The Elephant strayed into border villages of Goa from neighboring Maharashtra, continues to damage crops, affecting farmers. Omkar, a 10-year-old tusker, has been foraging in the villages of Pernem taluka for over a week. Currently stationed at Tamboxem, the elephant has damaged rice fields and consumed bananas and other farm produce.
Farmer Support Fund Scheme for Farmers Affected by Elephant Omkar
The state agriculture department has assured compensation for affected farmers under the farmer support fund scheme after the designated officials will carry out the inspection. Affected by their crop losses local farmers have been demanding Omkar’s immediate removal to prevent further losses. However, govt. schemes for farmers from time to time have helped farmers survive or cope from the losses caused either by natural disasters or disasters that are out of human control. Apart from the insurance scheme for farmers, govt. has also launched several schemes that assist farmers in farming related requirements.
Elephant Omkar has Damaged Rice Fields Including Other Farm Produce
The elephant has already targeted paddy, areca nut crops, banana plantations, and coconut trees. The Chief Minister of Goa held a meeting with officials and instructed Goa and Maharashtra Forest departments to guide the elephant to a safe habitat. After the inspection of the crop losses due to the elephant the govt. will provide assistance of Rs 40,000 per hectare under the farmer support fund scheme.