Bangladesh says 1,434,482 marginal farmers have benefited from a government programme waiving eligible agricultural loans and accrued interest. The government has reimbursed participating banks a total of Tk 1,352.74 crore.
According to figures released on 30 October, the programme covers specified agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000. Bangladesh Krishi Bank accounted for Tk 604.81 crore in waivers benefiting 709,679 farmers, with the remaining beneficiaries served by other participating banks.
The initiative is intended to reduce debt burdens and help farmers regain access to formal credit. Agricultural economists also point to the need for longer-term support through affordable inputs, irrigation, market access and lower production costs.