The cabinet has approved a plan to waive agricultural loans of up to Tk10,000, including accumulated interest, in a policy step aimed at providing relief to small-scale farmers and reinforcing rural economic stability.
The decision was taken at the first cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Thursday, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani told reporters.
Nasimul Gani said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment under its election manifesto to expand financial protection for marginal farmers facing repayment difficulties.
The waiver will cover outstanding agricultural credit of up to Tk10,000 used for crop production, fisheries, livestock and other farming activities. Any accrued interest on these loans will also be forgiven under the scheme.
According to Bangladesh Bank data cited by the cabinet secretary, the total eligible outstanding amount, including interest, stands at around Tk1,550 crore as of 25 February.
The loans were issued by state-owned banks, specialised financial institutions, and private commercial lenders.
Authorities estimate that approximately 12 lakh farmers across the country will benefit once the waiver is fully implemented.
Policymakers view the measure as part of broader efforts to ease financial stress in rural areas and strengthen agriculture, which remains a key contributor to employment and food security in Bangladesh.
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