Maharashtra Releases Third List of 3.51 Lakh Farmers for Loan Waiver

The Maharashtra government has announced the release of the third list identifying 3,51,192 farmers eligible for the Puneashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Loan Waiver Scheme. This announcement was made by state Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil on October 12. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burdens of farmers by waiving crop loans that have become overdue.

This latest list brings the total number of eligible farmers to 24.67 lakh, all of whom are required to verify their outstanding loan dues and complete Aadhaar authentication at their nearest Aaple Seva Kendra to benefit from the waiver. The loan waiver scheme covers crop loans issued between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2025, which were overdue as of September 30, 2025, and remain unpaid as of March 31, 2026.

According to Minister Patil, banks have reported 31.17 lakh overdue loan accounts on the scheme's portal. The first list of eligible farmers was released on July 24, comprising 16.96 lakh farmers, followed by a second list on September 11 with 4.20 lakh farmers. The current list includes farmers from various divisions, with the highest numbers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Amravati.

The outstanding loan amounts listed are as of March 31, 2026, and any interest or charges accruing from April 1, 2026, will be waived. Patil noted that some farmers with loans exceeding ₹2 lakh will still have their debts settled under the government's 'haircut' policy. Additionally, a standard operating procedure was established to assist eligible farmers who are elderly, deceased, or unable to provide biometric authentication.

Looking ahead, the loan waiver amounts will be credited to the beneficiaries' accounts following successful Aadhaar verification. This initiative is part of the Maharashtra government's broader efforts to support the agricultural community and ensure financial relief for farmers facing economic challenges.