Nagpur, Dec 11 (UNI) Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne on Thursday assured the Legislative Council that the state government will provide adequate funding for all farmer-oriented grant schemes, including assistance for farm ponds and the purchase of agricultural machinery.
He stressed that every eligible farmer will receive benefits under the relevant programmes.
Bharne made these remarks during question hour in response to queries raised by MLCs Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil, Sanjay Khodke, Shashikant Shinde, Sadabhau Khot, Satej Patil and others.
The members sought clarification on reports that nearly 48 lakh farmer applications for grants had remained pending without action for the past four years.
They also demanded details on how many farmers had received aid and how many were still waiting.
According to Bharne, of the 47 lakh applications examined, about 10 lakh farmers were found eligible for various grants.
He reaffirmed that the government would ensure that every qualifying farmer is included and no one is overlooked.
Responding to a question from MLC Shashikant Shinde regarding the additional funds required, the minister said that approximately Rs 2,000 crore would be needed.
He again assured the House that the government is committed to delivering the benefits to all rightful beneficiaries.
In a written statement, Bharne also informed the Council that during a cabinet meeting held on April 29, 2025, the government approved an annual allocation of Rs 5,000 crore for five years starting from 2025–26 under the" Krishi Samruddhi Yojana".
The initiative aims to enhance agricultural income by promoting climate-resilient practices, strengthening farm infrastructure, supporting organic farming, and encouraging crop diversification to reduce costs and improve long-term sustainability.
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