The government has decided to waive agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000, including interest, for approximately 1.2 million farmers across the country. The decision was taken during the first Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat on Thursday.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani briefed reporters after the meeting, which was chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, according to Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibli.
Gani stated that the waiver covers loans in the crops, fisheries, and livestock sectors, fulfilling a key pledge in the government’s election manifesto.
The primary objectives of this move are to ensure social security for impoverished farmers and to strengthen the backbone of the nation’s agricultural sector.
According to data from Bangladesh Bank, approximately Tk1,550 crore in outstanding dues – including interest – owed to state-owned commercial and specialised banks, as well as private commercial banks, will fall under this waiver as of 25 February.
