FM Sitharaman Addresses MP Beniwal's Concerns on Farmers' Loan Waivers
Synopsis
Hanuman Beniwal raises alarm over farmers' escalating debt in Lok Sabha, prompting a response from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who denies any current plans for loan waivers. The ongoing agricultural crisis demands urgent attention.
Key Takeaways
Debt Crisis: Farmers are facing an increasing debt burden that needs urgent attention.
No Loan Waivers: The Central government currently has no plans for complete loan waivers.
Rising Indebtedness: Agricultural credit has been rising without corresponding relief measures.
Financial Support Needed: A one-time comprehensive loan waiver is essential for farmers' support.
Call for Increased Assistance: Beniwal advocates for raising Kisan Samman Nidhi support to Rs 1 lakh annually.
Jaipur, March 23 (NationPress) On Monday, Hanuman Beniwal, the National President of the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party and MP from Nagaur, raised concerns regarding the escalating debt burden faced by farmers during a session in the Lok Sabha.
The Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, responded to his inquiry.
Expressing significant disappointment, MP Beniwal condemned the Central government’s approach as lacking sensitivity towards the distress experienced by farmers.
In her response, the Finance Minister made it clear that "no initiative for a comprehensive waiver of farmers' loans is presently under review by the Central government."
In reaction to this announcement, Beniwal remarked that it is profoundly troubling for farmers who are grappling with increasing debt, continual agricultural losses, and difficulties in maintaining their livelihoods.
He highlighted that official statistics underscore the gravity of the crisis.
According to the Finance Minister’s statement, agricultural credit distribution nationwide has witnessed a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% over the last three financial years (2022–2023 to 2024–2025).
Beniwal contended that this signifies a continual rise in farmers’ indebtedness without any corresponding relief.
He further claimed that such figures reveal the assertion of "doubling farmers’ income" to be more of a political slogan than a genuine policy.
Government data indicates that in Rajasthan alone, the total outstanding agricultural loans have soared to Rs 1,92,293 crore, while the cumulative outstanding farm debt across India totals Rs 31,34,808 crore.
MP Beniwal accused the government of attempting to distract from fundamental agrarian issues by promoting initiatives like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
He insisted that a one-time, comprehensive farm loan waiver is crucial to genuinely assist farmers.
Moreover, he called for an increase in the annual support provided under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme to Rs 1 lakh to offer meaningful financial aid to farmers throughout the country.
Point of View
It's clear that farmers' concerns about their financial burdens are significant. While the Finance Minister's response may offer clarity, the pressing need for serious relief measures remains. The ongoing agrarian crisis cannot be overlooked, and the government must address these issues promptly.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main issue raised by MP Hanuman Beniwal?
MP Hanuman Beniwal raised concerns about the increasing debt burden on farmers and sought clarity on farm loan waivers.
What was the Finance Minister's response regarding loan waivers?
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that there are currently no plans for a complete waiver of farmers' loans.
How much has agricultural credit disbursement grown?
Agricultural credit disbursement has grown at a CAGR of 15% over the last three financial years.
What did Beniwal suggest to support farmers further?
Beniwal suggested a one-time comprehensive farm loan waiver and increasing annual assistance under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme to Rs 1 lakh.
What is the total outstanding farm debt in Rajasthan?
In Rajasthan, the total outstanding agricultural loans have reached Rs 1,92,293 crore.
