Rajasthan govt extends interest waiver scheme for agriculture traders till Dec 31

In a relief to agriculture traders in Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday extended interest waiver scheme till December 31 for recovery of outstanding amount towards committees. Gehlot has agreed to proposal of Department of Agricultural Marketing in view of COVID-19 pandemic.

According to proposal, till September 30, a total amount of Rs 68 crore were outstanding dues, including mandi and allocation fees and or arrears from various agricultural committees of state.

Under interest waiver scheme, 75 per cent exemption was given on deposit of entire principal balance and 25 per cent of interest due on it till March 31, 2020.

Earlier, due to COVID-19, period of amnesty scheme was extended till September 30 which has w been extended till December 31.

duration of scheme has been extended on demand of various trade associations. This decision will provide relief to traders of fruits and vegetables and agricultural produce markets, a statement said.

Gehlot also approved proposal to waive mandi and farmers welfare fees for purchase of pulses and oilseeds at minimum support price in upcoming Kharif season 2020-21. He has given approval to issue a tification in this regard.

According to guidelines issued by central government, approval has been given to waive se charges for purchase, transportation, stor and sale of moong, urad, groundnut and soyabean at support price in Kharif season in state.

In ar decision, Rajasthan government has decided to pay remuneration to guest faculty working in state ITI institutions for lockdown period imposed to check spread of coronavirus. Gehlot has approved proposal in this regard.

With this decision, 1,066 guest faculty working in state ITI institutions will get remuneration for lockdown period. state government will bear a financial burden of about Rs 4.33 crore.

(Photo Credit: PTI)