Maharashtra Declares Drought in 265 Talukas, Announces Relief Measures for Farmers
Maharashtras CM announces drought status in 265 talukas, initiating relief measures for affected farmers and citizens.
Mumbai, September 26 (Daily Kiran) : Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken significant action to aid farmers and citizens affected by drought. He declared a drought in 265 of the state’s 358 talukas, indicating that nearly 75 percent of the region is now experiencing drought-like conditions.
To combat the crisis, the Chief Minister unveiled several relief measures. These include waiving land revenue, restructuring crop loans, halting recovery on agricultural loans, and providing discounts on electricity bills for farming pumps. Previously, electric pumps with a capacity of 7.5 horsepower had their bills waived, and now those with higher capacities will also benefit. Additionally, students in schools and colleges will receive fee waivers, and adjustments will be made to employment guarantee schemes to generate more job opportunities.
Where necessary, drinking water tankers will be dispatched. The electricity connections of farmers’ pumps will not be cut off, and food supplies will be provided to farming families and agricultural laborers. Arrangements for animal fodder will also be made, alongside large-scale water conservation efforts. The planning for drinking water and water for livestock will continue as per previous directives. District collectors have been ordered to complete the damage assessment process immediately, and data collection through photographs and GPS will be initiated.
On September 24, during a visit to Washim, Fadnavis announced that the state government would soon issue an official order declaring a severe drought in affected areas. He also assured that all eligible farmers who missed out on previous loan waiver schemes would receive relief.
Addressing the farmers in the village, the Chief Minister reassured them that the government would prioritize rural relief efforts. He emphasized that, in addition to financial assistance, the state administration is implementing emergency measures to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, distribute fodder for livestock, and expedite crop loss assessments.
