Latur

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Tuesday announced that the state government will soon roll out a loan waiver aimed at middle-class and needy farmers.

Speaking at a rally ahead of the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections in Ausa, Bawankule said the move reflects the government’s commitment to supporting the farming community.

“A genuine loan waiver is intended for middle-class and distressed farmers. An official announcement will be made shortly,” he stated.

Middle-class farmers, often medium-level landowners, typically cultivate enough land to generate a marketable surplus, distinguishing them from smallholders focused on subsistence farming.

The minister also said the government would issue land ownership orders for land grazers and members of the Banjaras and Vadar communities. Families previously excluded from housing schemes due to eligibility restrictions would be provided relief.

“The forthcoming Zilla Parishad elections are about ensuring that the benefits of 55 central and 44 state schemes reach every citizen. Special initiatives will be implemented for OBCs, Banjaras, and other marginalised groups,” Bawankule said.

He expressed confidence that the ‘Developed Latur 2047’ vision would drive substantial development in Ausa, Nilanga, and Killari, with significant central funding supporting the Marathwada region.

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The minister also reaffirmed that the ‘Ladki Bahin Yojana’ would continue, providing women with employment loans of up to Rs 5 lakh. Commercial complexes will be set up under the Zilla Parishad to help women’s self-help groups access markets for their products.