Maharashtra CM Advocates for Farmers Amid Drought Crisis
Maharashtra's Chief Minister calls for an end to coercive loan recovery from farmers while announcing financial aid ahead of Diwali.
CM Fadnavis urges RBI to halt forceful loan recoveries by microfinance firms.
Farmers to receive Rs 5,000 in aid as the state grapples with drought conditions.
Government allocates Rs 1.5 lakh crore for farmer relief, with funds expected to reach accounts shortly.
In a press briefing following a cabinet meeting, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the need to stop coercive loan recovery practices by microfinance companies targeting farmers. This statement comes as the state faces severe drought conditions, which have exacerbated the financial struggles of the agricultural community.
Fadnavis announced that the government has approved a substantial relief package amounting to Rs 1.5 lakh crore, aimed at supporting farmers during this challenging period. He confirmed that each farmer would receive Rs 5,000 in financial aid, with the disbursement expected to begin within two days, just in time for the Diwali festival.
The urgency of this announcement is underscored by a tragic incident in Nanded district, where a 40-year-old farmer was found dead at a private finance company's office after allegedly being kidnapped by recovery agents over outstanding loans. In response, Nanded Superintendent of Police Nilabh Rohan reported that five individuals have been arrested in connection with this case, highlighting the severe repercussions of the current financial pressures on farmers.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reiterated the government's commitment to providing various benefits to farmers following the drought declaration. In addition to the immediate Rs 5,000 assistance, he outlined that farmers would be eligible for a range of benefits, including fee waivers and loan restructuring. A provision of Rs 7,500 crore has been earmarked for this assistance, with assurances that funds will be transferred directly to farmers' accounts before Diwali.
Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane praised the government's decision as unprecedented, asserting that no other state has implemented such comprehensive support measures for farmers. The cabinet's approval of the Rs 5,000 aid is seen as a significant step towards alleviating the financial burden on farmers, ensuring that their Diwali celebrations are not overshadowed by economic distress.
