Siddaramaiah Pledges Support to Cooperative Banks for Timely Farmer Loans

Vijayapura: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has stated that the government will explore the option of placing the government deposits held in nationalised banks into cooperative banks. He was addressing the valedictory function of the All India Co-operative Week in Vijayapura on Monday.

Addressing the gathering, Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of cooperative banks. He highlighted the role of cooperative banks in providing timely loans to farmers.

"Co-operative banks must be sustainable to effectively support farmers with timely loans. This, in turn, will enhance agricultural productivity and ease the cultivation process. The government is committed to providing all necessary assistance to co-operative institutions," Siddaramaiah emphasized.

Drawing on historical support, Siddaramaiah noted that both Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru advocated for strengthening cooperatives, with Nehru incorporating this vision into the five-year plan.
"In our budget presentation, we worked to increase the zero percent loan from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. The loan limit for the 3 percent interest rate has also been increased to 15 lakh," he added.

Siddaramaiah underscored the need to address poverty and inequality in society. He mentioned the success of the Shakti scheme, where one crore women have traveled in buses free of cost, empowering 90 percent of the poor, women, Dalits, and minorities, despite minor shortcomings.

Emphasizing the inclusive nature of cooperative sectors and government programs, Siddaramaiah noted their implementation across religious and caste lines.

Turning to the pressing issue of drought in Karnataka, the Chief Minister said that drought had been declared in 223 out of the 236 taluks in the state.

Urging MPs to secure drought relief from the central government, he outlined the state government's initiatives in drought mitigation. "Deputy Commissioners and Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officers have been directed to ensure an adequate supply of drinking water, with Rs 800 crore already released for fodder, employment, and drinking water. Our government is committed to handling the drought efficiently," Siddaramaiah affirmed.