With the rural sector and farming community expected to play an important role in several Lok Sabha constituencies in the 2019 General Elections. The ruling BJP and the opposition Congress have separately announced a slew of measures to woo them. Following is low down of the promises made by both the parties.
Source: BJP and Congress manifestos | Compiled by Sanjeeb Mukherjee
| BJP | Congress |
|---|---|
| Expanding PM-KISAN to all approx 14 crore farmers and not just to small and marginal growers | Separate Budget for farmers |
| Short-term crop loans at zero interest rate on timely repayment | To waive outstanding farm loans in other states as well doesn't specify whether it would be a nationwide loan waiver |
| Pension scheme for small and marginal farmers | Will decriminalise farm loan default |
| Rs 25 lakh crore investment to boost productivity | To set up a National Commission on Agricultural Development & Planning to replace the CACP. |
| Enrollment to Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana made voluntary for loanee farmers also. Presently, it is compulsory | Redesign the crop insurance scheme |
| Enable Creation of 10,000 FPOs | To establish a Commission on Marginal Farmers and Agricultural Labourers |
| ‘Matsya Sampada Yojana’ with an allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for small and traditional fisherman | Repeal APMC acts and also 150 days’ work under MGNREGA. |