Barriers to Adopting the State Crop Insurance Scheme: A Case of Banana Farmers in Wayanad

Abstract

Aims: This study systematically identifies and prioritizes the major constraints affecting farmers’ adoption and effective use of the State Crop Insurance Scheme (SCIS). Study Design: A descriptive survey design was employed. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted during 2024 in six Panchayats across Kalpetta and Mananthavady blocks of Wayanad District. Methodology: A sample of 150 insured farmers who had incurred crop loss was interviewed. Six categories of constraints were ranked using Garrett’s Ranking Technique to assess their relative severity. Results: Timeliness of claim disbursement emerged as the most critical constraint, followed by premium affordability and limited awareness of alternative insurance schemes. Accessibility to banking services, procedural requirements, and documentation issues were also reported but ranked lower in severity. Conclusion: Delays in claim settlement and gaps in awareness significantly limit the effectiveness of SCIS. Strengthening extension services, simplifying claim procedures, ensuring timely disbursement, and improving institutional access can enhance farmers’ participation and contribute to more resilient and sustainable banana farming in disaster-prone regions.