Protesting Maharashtra farmers demand ₹2 lakh incentive for regular loan repayment
Along with a waiver of up to ₹2 lakh, farmers, who paid EMI’s regularly were supposed to receive incentive of ₹50,000, which farmers believe is unfair
On August 10, 2026, thousands of farmers in Maharashtra participated in a statewide protest, demanding an incentive of ₹2 lakh for those who have consistently repaid their loans. The protest, spearheaded by the Kisan Sabha, also called for the restoration of crop-insurance triggers and the granting of land rights to farmers cultivating certain types of land.
Dr. Ajit Navale, a leader of the All India Kisan Sabha, spoke on behalf of the protesters, stating that farmers are questioning the righteousness of paying loans regularly and requesting a relief package of ₹2 lakh.
The Maharashtra government had announced the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Shetkari Karzmukti scheme three months prior to the protest. This scheme was meant to provide a waiver of up to ₹2 lakh, along with an incentive of ₹50,000 for farmers who had been making regular loan payments. However, farmers now believe that the incentive offered is insufficient and unfair.
In July, the government launched the scheme and identified the first 500 eligible beneficiaries from six districts. The scheme is expected to benefit approximately 56 lakh farmers and result in the waiver of ₹36,585 crore in loans. The protest continued across all 23 districts, with Kisan Sabha representatives from various districts submitting memorandums to district collectors.
Dr. Navale also warned of an indefinite statewide protest, known as Mahamukkam, if the government fails to address their demands. The movement was led by Dr. Ashok Dhawale, J.P. Gavit, and other prominent Kisan Sabha leaders.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
