Maharashtra Budget Criticized for Insufficient Support to Farmers and Social Sectors

Senior NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil raised significant concerns in the Maharashtra assembly over the state budget, claiming it falls short on critical issues such as farm loan relief, rural development, and social welfare. He accused the ruling Mahayuti government of not fully delivering on promises made to farmers, particularly regarding loan waivers.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also handles the finance portfolio, presented a budget of INR 7,69,467 crore earlier this week, announcing that Maharashtra aims to become a USD 5 trillion economy by 2047. The budget included a farm loan waiver scheme covering crop loans of up to INR 2 lakh for loans taken until September 30, 2025.

Patil noted that the chief minister had promised farm loan waivers of up to INR 5 lakh during the election campaign, but only INR 2 lakh has been waived so far. He added that many farmers, especially in Vidarbha, continue to face heavy debts. He also recalled that the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government, in which the NCP (SP) was a partner, had launched a significant farm loan waiver programme in 2019.

Highlighting what he described as a contradictory approach, Patil criticised the government for closing under-populated Marathi medium schools in remote areas to save funds, while simultaneously taking on large loans for infrastructure projects. He also pointed out that Maharashtra's debt has surged from around INR 4 lakh crore to over INR 11 lakh crore in recent years, arguing that the budget focuses heavily on infrastructure but neglects farmers and social welfare.

Patil expressed concern over allocations for social welfare, agriculture, and dairy development. He cited underfunding in schemes such as the Matsya Sampada Yojana and measures for dairy farmers. The legislator also questioned the government's plans to manage challenges arising from technological changes, including potential employment losses due to artificial intelligence.

On economic performance, Patil claimed that Maharashtra is lagging behind states like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu in terms of growth. Using GST and sectoral data, he noted that the state has slipped from its previous top position in economic rankings.

He stressed that while the government talks about inclusive growth, the budget fails to translate promises into actionable measures. Patil urged that fiscal discipline should not come at the expense of rural and social sectors. The debate over the budget is expected to continue in the coming days, with opposition leaders scrutinising allocations across different sectors.