October 01, 2006	Sunday	Ramazan 7, 1427

NEW DELHI, Sept 30: India's cabinet has cleared a $3.7 billion package to try to stem farmer suicides in the cotton-growing belt but experts said on Saturday it may not help those hardest hit by rising debt.

The package approved late on Friday provides for loan rescheduling and investment in irrigation and crop diversification for farmers crippled by debt and falling cotton prices, which have prompted thousands to commit suicide.

The relief package also includes nearly $3.5 million to help the families of farmers who have killed themselves.—AFP