The farmers affected by drought in 2023 can submit applications to the Agency for Intervention and Payments in Agriculture (AIPA) to get compensation, Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, has announced. It is estimated that about 400 farmers will receive financial support, IPN reports.

“From today during 20 working days, i.e. until March 13 inclusive, farmers from districts who suffered as a result of drought in the summer of 2023 and seven economic agents from Edineț district are invited to submit applications to AIPA and receive money in the form of aid,” Vladimir Bolea told a press briefing.

Farmers whose land was affected by drought in a proportion of 60%-69% will receive compensation of 1,000 lei per hectare. For those whose land was 70%-79% affected, the compensation will be 1,500 lei per hectare. In the case of land affected by drought in a proportion of 80%-89%, the compensation will amount to 2,000 lei per hectare. Owners of land affected by drought in a proportion of 90%-100% will get 2,500 lei per hectare. Compensatory payments will go mostly to the farmers from southern Moldova.

“Every farmer who needs clarification is welcome at any time. You don’t have to wait for a special day or a specific time to come to the Ministry. The door of the Ministry is always open for you. The problems and challenges you face are discussed openly and we can identify solutions together. We sit at the discussions table together with the Ministry’s specialists, jurists so as to understand everyone’s situation and to act according to the needs of each farmer,” stated Vladimir Bolea.

Farmers began to protest last week. For several times, the access road to the Leușeni customs post was blocked, including today. The farmers say they are on the verge of bankruptcy and demand that Vladimir Bolea should vacate the seat of minister of agriculture and food industry.