Modi Government Considers Increasing Cash Transfers to Small Farmers Ahead of Elections
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Modi's government considering boosting cash support to small farmers by a third ahead of elections, to shore up a key voting bloc.
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Plan would raise annual direct cash transfers to farmers from 6,000 rupees to 8,000 rupees.
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Would cost government an extra 200 billion rupees on top of 600 billion budgeted.
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Part of measures to support rural incomes amid weak monsoon rains threatening crops.
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Government also taking steps like extending free foodgrains program, considering subsidized loans for small urban housing.