Thiruvananthapuram: The suicide of a farmer in Alappuzha Thakazhy has resulted a wave of dissent among farmers against Paddy Receipt Sheet (PRS) loans. They demand the system of paying cash for the rice procured. Farmers are now strongly expressing their discontent, demanding a shift from the existing system of PRS loans to a direct cash payment for the rice supplied.
The PRS loan system involved farmers receiving loans against the rice they provided, with an agreement in place to repay the amount. This practice was initially accepted by farmers due to the convenience of not facing immediate financial liabilities. This method was continued by making an agreement with the government banks to pay the rice price as a loan. People were getting loans under the guarantee of the government. Farmers initially did not object because they received money from the bank quickly if PRS was presented. But farmers realised that the PRS loan system becomes a trap when they seek additional loans for other purposes.
The deceased farmer, identified as Prasad, faced financial difficulties arising from the complications associated with PRS loans. Despite having cleared a Rs 25,000 loan, he faced additional challenges with the government withholding Rs 5 lakh as arrears for paddy procurement. The arrears became a barrier, resulting in the denial of other loans for Prasad’s agricultural pursuits. Due to this, the farmer committed suicide.
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