Farmers Warn of Debt Trap as Maharashtra's Minimal Drought Relief Falls Short

Across the drought‑hit talukas, farmers report that the Rs 5,000 advance does not cover basic production expenses such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides or hired labor. The limited cash infusion has pushed many into a vicious cycle of borrowing before the Diwali season, with creditors applying aggressive pressure for repayment. The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) issued a joint statement condemning the token amount, noting that it fails to address the core financial distress confronting the agricultural community.

The AIKS highlighted that beyond immediate crop loss, growers fear a loss of livelihood in the coming year. They called for a re‑allocation of funds from large‑scale ventures to robust, long‑term relief packages capable of stabilising farm incomes.