“Kerala: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refutes CPM’s claims of fund withholding”, Organiser, November 26, 2023:

“Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, speaking at the inauguration of the Loan Fair organised by Indian Overseas Bank and Canara Bank in Attingal, emphasised the importance of the state government providing proper accounts for the funds allocated.

Sitharaman’s statements not only countered the CPM’s allegations of fund withholding but also advocated for transparency and accountability in Kerala’s agricultural practises. The Finance Minister’s address at the Loan Fair emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring they receive their due payments in a timely manner.

The Finance Minister underscored the need for farmers to receive the appropriate price for the paddy procured by the state government. Sitharaman clarified that the absolute responsibility for paying the paddy’s price rests with the state government, and she urged them to fulfill this commitment to the farmers……”

Read the full article at Organiser.org