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

"I understand the problems of the people of Punjab, particularly farmers. Last year also, we had waived off loans... With just a few days to go for the Budget, it will not be appropriate for me to disclose these things.

"But I want to assure you that the demands raised in your memorandum will be considered by our government under the leadership of (UPA Chairperson) Sonia Gandhi," he told the delegation led by former Punjab deputy chief minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal.

The delegates 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." Kaur also thanked the Prime Minister for announcing release of 10 lakh tonne subsidized wheat under the Public Distribution System for Punjab.

Earlier, the Prime Minister said that the ruling Akali Dal in Punjab was trying to launch an agitation to portray that the UPA government at the Centre was doing nothing to protect the interests of Punjab.

"This is absolutely wrong... As you have come in large numbers, this shows that Akali Dal's allegations are wrong. The reality is in contrast to their allegations. Punjab's interests are in the safe hands of UPA and Sonia Gandhi," Singh said.