Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme, 2008
Government scheme — a structured programme with defined beneficiaries, budget allocation, and delivery mechanisms. The primary instrument for delivering welfare and development outcomes.
Summary
Waived loans of approximately 3.6 crore small and marginal farmers at a cost of Rs 71,680 crore. One of the largest farm debt waiver programmes in Indian history, covering both direct and indirect agricultural loans.
Key Facts
Type Scheme
Source Historical Record
Published Friday, 29 February 2008
Affected Population ~150 million farming households, 42% of workforce
Key Numbers
Agri budget: Rs 1.52 lakh crore (2025-26)
MSP for 23 crops
PM-KISAN: Rs 6,000/year to 9 crore farmers
GDP: $3.9 trillion (2025 est.)
Key Authorities
Key Stakeholders
Government Context
UPA I Congress-led UPA
Left Centre Right