Mumbai, Oct 28 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Tuesday that the government has successfully transferred Rs 8,000 crore into the bank accounts of 40 lakh farmers who have been impacted by the recent rainfall and flooding across the state.

The state cabinet has approved an additional Rs 11,000 crore in aid, which falls under the previously sanctioned relief package of Rs 31,628 crore that was authorized on October 7.

"To date, Rs 8,000 crore has been distributed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) program to assist the farmers. Funds have been credited to approximately 40 lakh farmers. Today, we received cabinet approval to release another Rs 11,000 crore. This funding was not part of the budget and was consequently approved as a special measure. We aim to have this amount deposited into farmers' accounts within the next 15 days," stated the Chief Minister.

CM Fadnavis noted that in certain areas, partial payments have already been made.

"This is because we opted to approve lists as they arrive instead of waiting for all submissions. Thus, there is no reason for anyone to be concerned that they received NDRF funds but did not acquire the direct assistance of Rs 10,000. Some individuals have reported receiving Rs 10,000 but not the assistance allocated for up to three hectares. Those who received funds for two hectares will now also see funds credited for the third hectare," he added.

The Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that no eligible farmer is overlooked. He mentioned that extensive revalidation is necessary to prevent funds from reaching those who are ineligible.

He assured that the funds would arrive in farmers' accounts within 15 to 20 days, aiming to cover up to 90 percent of the farmer population. He confirmed there is no scarcity of funds.

CM Fadnavis indicated that out of the total relief package of Rs 31,628 crore, nearly Rs 21,000 crore will be directly credited to the farmers' bank accounts. He reiterated that Rs 8,000 crore has already been disbursed, with the cabinet approving an additional Rs 11,000 crore. Furthermore, Rs 1,500 crore will be released separately.

Additionally, the Chief Minister stated that as the procurement of agricultural products commences, the government has initiated the registration process for farmers to ensure they receive guaranteed prices.

"If traders are offering guaranteed prices, farmers should sell their produce to them. However, if they are receiving lower prices, they should sell to the government at its procurement centers," he concluded.