They are a temporary measure at best. If Maharashtra wants to secure the future of its cultivators, the focus must shift from periodic debt relief to building a more resilient agricultural system

The state government is considering a loan waiver estimated at around R35,000 crore, which could benefit about 30 lakh farmers. Representation Pic/Atul Kamble

Farmers may welcome the proposed farm loan waiver, but the relief comes at a time when another concern looms large, the possibility of an El Nino year that could disrupt the monsoon and affect rainfall.

For farmers dependent on the monsoon, even a slight shift in rainfall can make the difference between a decent harvest and financial distress. After last year’s crop damage caused by excessive rain in several parts of Maharashtra, the prospect of another uncertain season is worrying both farmers and policymakers.

The Mahayuti alliance had promised a farm loan waiver during the 2024 election campaign. After coming to power, however, its leaders repeatedly stated that the decision would be made “at an appropriate time” whenever the issue was raised. This drew criticism from many quarters that the government was delaying the fulfilment of its promise.

The proposal now appears to have moved to a fast track. With farmers already under stress due to crop losses over the past year and concerns rising over a possible El Nino year,........

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