India, March 6 -- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday announced a farm loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh while presenting the state Budget for 2026, along with a series of welfare and infrastructure initiatives aimed at strengthening the rural economy and boosting agricultural productivity.

Under the Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar Shetkari Karj Maafi Yojana, crop loans of up to Rs 2 lakh taken by farmers and overdue until September 30, 2025, will be waived. The government also announced an incentive of up to Rs 50,000 for farmers who repay their loans regularly.

Fadnavis said the government would continue the popular Majhi Laadki Bahin scheme, which provides financial assistance to women, though the monthly payout will rema...