Is Direct Aid to Flood-Hit Farmers More Important than Loan Waivers?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis emphasizes that the state's financial aid package of Rs 31,628 crore for flood-affected farmers takes precedence over farm loan waivers. With mounting agricultural losses, the government reaffirms its commitment to support farmers amid severe challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra's financial assistance package for flood-affected farmers totals Rs 31,628 crore.
- Direct aid is prioritized over farm loan waivers during this crisis.
- The government is committed to fulfilling its promises regarding loan waivers.
- Severe rainfall has affected 352 talukas in 29 districts.
- Farmers will receive support for various types of losses.
Mumbai, Oct 7 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Tuesday that the state's financial assistance package amounting to Rs 31,628 crore for farmers affected by floods and rain is of greater significance than the farm loan waiver.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the government remains committed to honoring its promise regarding the loan waiver.
This declaration comes in response to increasing demands from opposition parties and various farmers' organizations for a farm loan waiver, given the extensive damage inflicted by severe rains and floods that have impacted not only Kharif crops but also posed challenges for farmers during the Rabi season.
“Currently, direct aid is more vital than the loan waiver. We have not deviated from our commitment to the farm loan waiver,” declared the Chief Minister during a press event following the cabinet meeting.
“We will keep our promises concerning the farm loan waiver. Uddhav Thackeray often mentions that he enacted a loan waiver during his tenure. However, the Maha Vikas Aghadi government implemented the Mahatma Phule loan waiver scheme, which resulted in waiving farm loans worth Rs 20,500 crore. In contrast, during my tenure as Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019, we waived loans through the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj loan waiver scheme, writing off loans totaling Rs 18,662 crore, and an additional Rs 1900 crore, summing up to around Rs 20,000 crore,” he claimed.
In a critique of former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Fadnavis pointed out that the former also engaged in loan waivers.
“Uddhav Thackeray proposed a subsidy of Rs 50,000 for those who consistently pay their farm loans, yet this was not executed. However, under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the government allocated about Rs 5,000 crore to regular loan payers. Thus, we have remained true to our promise. Yet, today, direct support is of greater priority than the farm loan waiver. Even with a loan waiver, where will farmers whose lands have been washed away obtain soil? Therefore, we have not retreated on the loan waiver. We will also waive loans, but our immediate focus is on direct assistance,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde insisted that the state government has introduced a larger financial package than those in Punjab and Tamil Nadu for farmers affected by the heavy rains.
“We promised that we would not let the farmers have a bleak Diwali,” he stated.
Shinde noted that farmers are facing a significant crisis, adding that such heavy rainfall has never been witnessed before.
“We visited the fields and assessed the situation. Damage has occurred across 352 talukas in 29 districts, affecting approximately 65 lakh hectares of farmland. During this challenging time, the MahaYuti government stands firmly by the farmers,” he affirmed.
Shinde announced the Rs 31,628 crore package.
“But did the opposition, who criticized us, even visit the fields to offer a packet of biscuits?” questioned Shinde.
He expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is aware and will extend assistance to the state.
“The government is dedicated to upholding the dignity of farmers. Our proposal will be presented to the Centre, and we expect substantial support from them,” he remarked.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also assured that the current government stands resolutely alongside the farmers.
He acknowledged that the severe crop damage due to excessive rainfall is distressing, but reaffirmed that the government is firmly behind the farmers.
“The government has unveiled a relief package of Rs 31,628 crore for the state's farmers. Assistance will be extended to cover losses from crops, livestock, housing, and other damages, with relaxed conditions. I assure you that no farmer will be overlooked in receiving this aid,” he concluded.
Point of View
I recognize the urgency of addressing the plight of farmers in Maharashtra. The government's prioritization of direct aid over loan waivers reflects a pragmatic approach to immediate needs, ensuring that farmers receive tangible assistance in times of crisis. This approach aligns with the nation's commitment to support its agricultural backbone.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the financial package announced for farmers in Maharashtra?
The Maharashtra government has announced a financial package of Rs 31,628 crore for farmers affected by floods and heavy rains.
How does the aid package compare to loan waivers?
CM Devendra Fadnavis stated that direct aid is currently more important than loan waivers, although the government remains committed to fulfilling its promise regarding loan waivers.
Which areas are affected by the floods?
The floods have caused significant damage across 352 talukas in 29 districts of Maharashtra, impacting around 65 lakh hectares of farmland.
What assistance is being provided to farmers?
Farmers will receive direct assistance to cover losses from crops, livestock, housing, and other damages, with relaxed conditions to ensure no farmer is left behind.
Is the government seeking support from the central government?
Yes, the Maharashtra government will present a proposal to the Centre, expecting substantial support and assistance.
