Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday announced that the Maharashtra government has withdrawn the eligibility conditions for the farm loan waiver after requests from legislators. Replying to the Opposition's motion in the Assembly, he also rejected allegations that smart meters had increased electricity bills and dismissed claims that Maharashtra tops the country in crime.

Farm scheme

Fadnavis said the eligibility conditions were proposed to maintain financial discipline and protect the banking system, not because the government doubted farmers. He said repeated loan waivers affect repayment behaviour and banks' willingness to lend. However, the conditions were withdrawn following demands from legislators.