How do I apply for PMFBY as a non-loanee farmer without any crop loan?

Yes, non-loanee farmers can enrol in PMFBY voluntarily. Since the premium is not deducted automatically from any loan, you have to enrol yourself and pay directly. You can do it through a Common Service Centre (CSC), through a bank branch, through an authorised insurance intermediary, or yourself on the National Crop Insurance Portal. Carry your land records showing area and crop, your bank account or passbook, your identity proof and a sowing declaration for the season. At enrolment you pick the crop and area, the portal shows the farmer premium, you pay it and you receive an application number. Keep that number safe for status checks and claims. Two reminders. Enrol before the season cut-off date, which is the same deadline that applies to everyone for that crop. And declare the crop you will actually sow, because a mismatch can block a claim. The cut-off dates and crop-wise premium change each season, so confirm them on the PMFBY portal or at the CSC before you pay.