With the State Government providing loans to farmers at a mere one per cent interest, Madhya Pradesh becomes the first State in the country to launch this scheme, said Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. He was addressing the 'Antyodaya Mela' in Morena district on Thursday.

He said the farmers need not panic, as the State Government stands by them in hour of need.

 The CM assured that the frost-affected crops would be resurveyed and adequate relief will be disbursed. Directives have already been issued to the administration.

 Promising that the Government will foot the bills and repay loans of the farmers, Chouhan informed that nearly half of the State Budget has been earmarked for the uplift of the poor, as 50 per cent of the people in the State are poor.

He announced different schemes for different classes.

On his arrival, Chauhan was welcomed at the helipad by BSP legislators Parshuram Mudgal and Maniram Dhakad, who remained present throughout the programme.