Pandharpur, July 24 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday declared that his government has fulfilled its promise to provide the country’s largest debt relief to distressed farmers, symbolically distributing debt waiver certificates and new crop loan cheques under the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Debt Relief Scheme in Solapur district.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Sudhakarpant Paricharak State‑Level Agriculture Exhibition organised by the Pandharpur Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC), Fadnavis said the scheme will benefit 56 lakh farmers across the state. Farmers who have been regular in their loan repayments will also receive Rs 50,000 directly in their accounts.
He explained that the launch was deliberately held in Pandharpur, the holy city of Lord Panduranga, where millions of farmers and Warkaris assemble. The Cooperation Department has released the first list of 17 lakh farmers, with Rs 13,000 crore to be deposited into their accounts before July 31. Subsequent lists will follow as data is received from banks.
Fadnavis assured that no eligible farmer would be left behind. He added that the government annually disburses Rs 24,000–25,000 crore to Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company to cover subsidies for agricultural pumps up to 7.5 HP. Alongside loan relief, Rs 48,000 crore in outstanding electricity bills for 50 lakh farmers will be waived. By December or March, 100 per cent of farmers are expected to receive 12 hours of uninterrupted daytime power supply.
Highlighting last year’s expenditure of nearly Rs 95,000 crore on subsidies for drip irrigation, fertilisers, tractors and mechanisation, he emphasised that the government stands firmly with farmers.
The Chief Minister also said preparations for the Pandharpur Corridor development are nearly complete, promising comprehensive rehabilitation for affected locals. He noted that nearly 30 lakh devotees gather in Pandharpur annually and announced improved infrastructure to ensure safety and convenience.
Fadnavis underlined the need to modernise agriculture, reduce costs and increase productivity. He introduced Maha Vistar, India’s first AI‑based app for farmers, which provides personalised guidance on fertiliser use, pest control, water management and modern techniques in local dialects. Nearly 50 lakh farmers have registered, and he urged others to join.
He further assured that departments would explore constructing barrages on the Bhima River and converting the new bridge over the Chandrabhaga River into a bridge‑cum‑barrage to retain water locally.
–IANS
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