Indebtedness on the rise

Agriculture is an enterprise like any other and needs capital inputs; therefore, increased borrowing for productive purposes is a healthy trend. Meanwhile, the government is of a different view having constituted a committee to “look into the problems of agricultural indebtedness” and “suggest measures for providing relief to farmers across the country.” All the while setting increasing targets for agriculture credit disbursement (Rs 2,25,000 crore for 2007-08, up 29% from last year).

Yes, Sir, the farmer only wanted to buy a tractor!