Maharashtra Initiates Legal Action Against Microfinance Firms
The Maharashtra government is set to file police cases against microfinance companies exploiting drought-affected farmers.
Legal action will target microfinance firms harassing farmers for loan repayments.
New relief measures include financial aid and fodder procurement for drought-hit areas.
Additional talukas may be declared drought-affected based on upcoming reports.
In a significant move to protect farmers suffering from drought, Maharashtra's Revenue Minister, Ranjit Bawankule, announced that the state will file police cases against microfinance companies that are pressuring these farmers for loan repayments. This decision was made during a meeting of the state cabinet's drought relief sub-committee, following reports of harassment faced by farmers in Nanded.
The government is implementing various relief measures aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by farmers in 304 drought-affected talukas. District collectors have been empowered to oversee the procurement and cultivation of fodder, ensuring that farmers have access to necessary resources. Furthermore, the government is set to provide financial assistance for desilting lakes and dams, as well as a subsidy for transporting the excavated material to agricultural fields.
Under the new guidelines, dry fodder will be priced at Rs 12 per kg, while green fodder will cost Rs 8 per kg. A five-member committee led by district collectors will be responsible for procuring fodder and facilitating local cultivation. The government also plans to divert surplus fodder from Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts to support drought-affected areas.
In addition to fodder support, the Maharashtra government is introducing a Rs 5,000 financial assistance scheme for eligible farmers ahead of Diwali. However, this scheme will exclude income tax payers, government employees, and elected representatives. The eligibility criteria will mirror those used for farm loan waivers. The government is also considering the inclusion of more talukas, such as Haveli and Maval in Pune, as drought-affected, based on ground reports expected from district collectors.
Looking ahead, a final decision on the inclusion of additional talukas in the drought-hit list will be made in an upcoming meeting scheduled for Tuesday. The government aims to address the ongoing challenges faced by farmers and ensure that necessary support reaches those in need promptly.
