Shinde warns micro-finance firms in Nanded against harassing drought-hit farmers

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a direct warning in Nanded to micro-finance companies that harass farmers. He was inaugurating and dedicating to the public various development works in assembly constituencies of Nanded district, and gave the finance companies a stern warning while speaking on the occasion.

The drought has created a grim situation in the state. Farmers are distraught because of inadequate rain. Against this backdrop, the state government is trying to help them, and advance aid of Rs 5,000 has already been given to farmers in drought-hit areas.

The event covered development works in the Nanded North assembly constituency, and the works were inaugurated and dedicated to the public by Shinde. MPs Ashok Chavan and Hemant Patil, MLA Balaji Kalyankar and many office-bearers were present.

Shinde said the government has made funds available for development works in Nanded. He also mentioned work on health facilities, water supply and fodder arrangements.

Raising the issue of recovery of farmers' loans, Shinde said farmers are already in difficulty because of the drought, and employees of finance companies should not pressure them for recovery. "Do not harass farmers, otherwise we will deal with the micro-finance company," he warned plainly. He said strict action would be taken against employees who harass farmers.

Shinde said farmers are in crisis because of the drought and the government stands by them. The Cabinet has approved advance aid of Rs 5,000 for eligible drought-hit farmers. The amount is to be credited directly to bank accounts. The government has set aside Rs 7,500 crore for this aid.

Criticising the opposition, Shinde asserted that the Ladki Bahin scheme will not be discontinued. He said the benefit of Rs 1,500 that women receive will continue.

Shinde also said mass marriage gatherings will be organised for farmers' daughters. He added that the government is trying to give farm families relief during Diwali.