Overview

• Deputy CM Ajit Pawar reiterated that a crop loan waiver is not feasible this year or next due to Maharashtra's financial condition, urging farmers to repay loans by March 31.
• The MahaYuti alliance's unfulfilled election promise of a loan waiver has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, farmer groups, and even some BJP legislators.
• Deputy CM Eknath Shinde reaffirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling all manifesto promises, emphasizing the need for financial balance and long-term planning.
• Farmer organizations and opposition leaders accuse the government of prioritizing increased salaries and pensions for employees over the welfare of struggling farmers.
• The government highlights its agricultural relief efforts, such as Rs 16,000 crore for crop damage relief and Rs 45,000 crore for allied agricultural businesses, as evidence of its support for farmers.