Ahead of the Budget, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday hinted at the possibility of some debt relief for farmers.

"The Budget is expected in another two-three days and it would be inappropriate for me to discuss these issues in detail. But I would like to assure you that under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi, our Government would pay attention to the demands listed in the memorandum submitted," he said addressing farmers from Punjab at his residence.

Gandhi was also present on the occasion, got up ahead of tomorrow's rally of Punjab farmers being organised by Akali Dal and BJP in the capital to highlight mainly the issues of farmers, farm labour and industry.

Among other things, the farmers demanded waiving of small farm loans. The Prime Minister said he understood the agony of Punjab, especially farmers and even last year the Government had waived loans of the Punjab Government. He said Gandhi, Congress party and the UPA Government wanted that Punjab should progress and prosper.

Referring to the rallies and public meetings being organised by Akali Dal against UPA Government, Singh told the farmers at his residence, "This is absolutely wrong and by coming here in such large numbers, you have proved it. The rights and interests of the people of Punjab are safe in the hands of the UPA government."

The farmers brought in at the prime minister's residence by former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal submitted a memorandum to Gandhi and Singh asking for, among other things, a debt relief package for small and marginal farmers with a land holding of up to five acres.

In her remarks, Sonia Gandhi said since 2004, "when our government came to power, it has taken many steps for the benefit of farmers. MSP for wheat and rice has been increased. We know farmers are facing difficult times. They are facing a lot of difficulties. I hope, I know Manmohan Singh's government will give due attention to your demands."