Explanation:

Rural credit refers to the availability of financial resources in rural areas for agricultural and non-agricultural activities. It plays a crucial role in the development of rural areas by providing the necessary funds for investment and promoting economic growth.

Sources of Rural Credit:
1. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): RRBs are specialized banks that primarily cater to the credit needs of rural areas. They were established with the objective of providing banking and credit facilities to small farmers, agricultural laborers, and rural artisans. RRBs are jointly owned by the central government, state government, and the sponsor bank (usually a commercial bank).

2. Moneylenders: Moneylenders have been traditional sources of rural credit in India. They provide loans to farmers and rural households based on personal relationships and trust. However, moneylenders often charge exorbitant interest rates and exploit the vulnerabilities of borrowers.

3. Traders: In some cases, traders also act as sources of rural credit. They provide loans to farmers and rural entrepreneurs, particularly during the agricultural season. This credit is often in the form of advance payments against future produce or goods.

4. Government: The government, both at the central and state levels, plays a significant role in providing rural credit. It implements various schemes and programs to ensure the availability of credit to rural areas. These include initiatives like Kisan Credit Card Scheme, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and various subsidized loan programs.

Explanation of Correct Answer:
The correct answer is option 'D' - Government. This option is not a source of rural credit because the government does not directly provide credit to rural areas. Instead, it formulates policies, schemes, and programs to facilitate credit availability through banks, regional rural banks, and other financial institutions. The government plays a regulatory and facilitative role in ensuring that rural credit needs are met effectively.

While the government does not directly provide credit, its intervention is crucial in creating a conducive environment for rural credit availability. It promotes financial inclusion, sets interest rate caps, provides guarantees and subsidies, and encourages the establishment of specialized institutions like Regional Rural Banks to address the credit needs of rural areas.