The Hyderabad state government is actively progressing towards finalizing the framework for implementing a farm loan waiver scheme. The finance department is focusing on arranging the necessary funds, while the Agriculture department and other related ministries are collaborating on formulating the specific modalities and guidelines.
Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has set a target for the scheme to be operational by August 15, prompting officials to expedite the process. Sources suggest that the government may adopt guidelines similar to those used by the previous BRS administration for identifying eligible farmers during a similar loan waiver initiative.
In a recent Cabinet meeting, it was decided that loans taken by farmers between December 12, 2018, and December 9, 2023, would be eligible for waiver. The scheme is expected to cover short-term loans up to 18 months, excluding long-term loans. Family units are likely to be considered as a single entity for eligibility assessment, with ration cards serving as the primary basis for identification by Agriculture Assistant Extension Officers (AEOs).
Preliminary estimates indicate that the scheme will require Rs 31,000 crore to be successfully implemented, highlighting the scale and financial commitment of the initiative.