📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / SBDhanawat
Agriculture
Maharashtra minister urges farmers to return unused Rs 5,000 aid
✍️ India Today
🗓 09 Nov 2026, 01:31 AM
👁 23
The state’s agriculture minister has asked farmers who received a Rs 5,000 cash assistance to give it back if they do not need it.
Maharashtra's agriculture minister appealed to farmers on Thursday, requesting that those who have received the one‑time Rs 5,000 cash assistance under the state’s relief scheme return the amount if it is not required for agricultural needs. The minister said the gesture would help channel the funds to other vulnerable households that are still awaiting support.
The Rs 5,000 aid was distributed earlier this year to small and marginal farmers as part of a broader effort to mitigate the impact of erratic monsoons and rising input costs. While many beneficiaries have used the money for seeds, fertilizers or labour, some reported that the amount was insufficient for their current expenses.
In his statement, the minister emphasized that returning unused cash is voluntary but encouraged farmers to consider the collective benefit. He also assured that the government would continue to monitor the scheme and explore additional measures to sustain agricultural livelihoods.
No official figure has been released on how many farmers might return the aid, and the ministry has not set a deadline for the process. The appeal comes as the state prepares for the upcoming sowing season, aiming to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently across the farming community.
The Rs 5,000 aid was distributed earlier this year to small and marginal farmers as part of a broader effort to mitigate the impact of erratic monsoons and rising input costs. While many beneficiaries have used the money for seeds, fertilizers or labour, some reported that the amount was insufficient for their current expenses.
In his statement, the minister emphasized that returning unused cash is voluntary but encouraged farmers to consider the collective benefit. He also assured that the government would continue to monitor the scheme and explore additional measures to sustain agricultural livelihoods.
No official figure has been released on how many farmers might return the aid, and the ministry has not set a deadline for the process. The appeal comes as the state prepares for the upcoming sowing season, aiming to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently across the farming community.