What happened: PIB-backed technology tools for PMFBY yield and weather estimation
PIB describes three technology tools that support crop insurance delivery under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and related weather-based risk mechanisms. These tools focus on improving two key inputs for insurance decisions: crop yield estimation and weather/damage-related evidence.
1) YES-TECH for technology-based yield estimation
YES-TECH (Yield Estimation System based on Technology) uses remote sensing and other technology-based methods to generate crop yield estimates. PIB provides a rollout timeline for crop coverage and indicates how the weightage of YES-TECH-derived yields has increased.
YES-TECH uses remote sensing and technology-based methods to provide crop yield estimates.YES-TECH was launched for paddy and wheat in Kharif 2023.YES-TECH was launched for soybean in Kharif 2024.Initially, YES-TECH-derived yields had at least 30% weightage in the yield estimation process.In some states, YES-TECH weightage has increased up to 50%.
2) WINDS for hyperlocal weather data
Related current affairs
- Implementation of YES-TECH (Technology-based yield estimation) for objective crop damage assessment under PMFBY
- PMFBY implementation trends: enrolment changes due to Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh universalization approach discontinuation and state-wise growth in Kharif 2025-26
- PMFBY premium rates and government subsidy sharing: farmer contribution norms and NE/Himalayan coverage
- PMFBY risk coverage details: yield losses, prevented sowing, localized calamities and exclusions
- PMFBY: inclusive coverage for tenant farmers and sharecroppers; eligibility and who is covered (loanee vs non-loanee)
- The New Era of Indian Agriculture and Allied Sectors
