In a significant relief for the farming community, the state government has approved the Agriculture Loan Interest Subvention Scheme under its one-time settlement policy, aimed at easing financial stress on farmers with overdue agricultural loans.
Under the scheme, the government will bear 50% of the outstanding interest on agricultural loans up to ₹3 lakh per farmer. The initiative is expected to benefit around 6,356 farmers across the state, with an estimated financial implication of ₹50 crore.
The scheme will be implemented through the Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank and the Kangra Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank. Concerned branches will identify eligible borrowers and prepare beneficiary lists for timely disbursal of benefits.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said farmers remain the backbone of the state’s economy, and their welfare continues to be the government’s top priority. He said the decision has been taken to support farmers struggling under adverse conditions and to prevent loss of agricultural land due to loan defaults.
The scheme targets farmers whose loans have turned overdue and whose land is at risk of auction. By sharing half of the interest burden, the government aims to help farmers regularise loans, reduce financial pressure and continue agricultural activities without distress.
The Chief Minister has directed departments and financial institutions to ensure swift implementation so that eligible farmers receive timely relief.
Reiterating the government’s focus on agriculture, Sukhu said efforts are also underway to promote natural farming and provide assured support prices for chemical-free produce, strengthening rural incomes and encouraging sustainable farming practices.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
