The Department of Agriculture, in an effort to alleviate farmers’ debt, is strategizing to put central funds into use should the forthcoming budgetary year experience any hold-ups. This initiative is part and parcel of the existing government’s strategies, notably the approach put forth by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, which seeks to downscale production costs.
Prior to the public announcement, the Deputy Ministers of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Chaiya Phromma, revealed during an interview that the delivery of this urgent debt-relief policy for farmers would predominantly fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Finance. As part of the initiative’s blueprint, the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) has been tasked with the planning and preparation stages, having held various discussions with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is also the Finance Minister.
Beyond the debt-relief policy, the Ministry of Agriculture is dedicated to providing ongoing support to the farming community for a period of three years, ensuring farmers can stand on their own feet again.
In the event of a budgetary shortfall or delay in the new financial year, Chaiya Phromma assured that certain duties within the Ministry of Agriculture can undergo necessary adjustments. With the 2024 Budget Expenditure Draft Act still pending submission to Parliament, Chaiya mentioned potentials within the central budget to aid debt-stricken farmers seeking additional occupations.
When queried about potential alterations to the items listed in the 2024 Budget Draft Act, Chaiya emphasised the need to perform a thorough assessment. Strategies should be realigned according to prevailing government policies and whether said plans are capable of making the necessary adjustments. He reaffirmed that the government’s agenda to cut production costs remains paramount to the successful execution of the farmer’s debt relief plan.
Chaiya’s in-depth elaboration of how the septuagenarian Prime Minister, following his recent encounters with the northeastern populace, gained a deeper understanding of their concerns over the use of potash ore in fertilizer production was also enlightening. Considering the availability of an eco-friendly and safe production method, raising public awareness on this development remains key.
If successful, this aid will limit dependence on imported fertilizers, reduce overall production costs and contribute significantly to debt relief. Furthermore, it is expected that this initiative can commence within the current government’s tenure. However, the goal of scale-down production costs needs consolidated efforts, warranting a discussion with the Department of Commerce.
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