Farm loan waiver will be announced in budget: CM

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said an announcement on the quantum of farm loan waiver would be made in the state budget, likely to be presented in July first week.

Speaking to reporters after participating in the ‘Amavasye puja’ at Kalabhyraveshwara temple at Adichunchanagiri Mutt, he said, “I am not an escapist like leaders of other parties. I am committed to fulfil the assurances made during the election campaigning. I am holding discussion with the authorities and have gathered details on the amount of loan availed of by the farmers from various banks. I will announce a suitable plan while presenting the budget. There is no reason for farmers to be worried. They should not take the extreme step like committing suicide. If they resort to suicide, my enthusiasm to work for the people will be affected. They should maintain patience till a suitable decision is taken.”

Meanwhile, Congress Legislature Pary leader and chairman of the coordination committee of the JD(S)-Congress coalition government Siddaramaiah said his party is not against waiver of farm loans. Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, he said the Congress is committed to the welfare of farmers. “I do not want to comment on the financial condition of the state during the earlier government. Now, Kumarsawamy of the JD(S) is the chief minister in the coalition government. The Finance portfolio is also with him,” he said.