A meeting convened to address the escalating drought situation in Maharashtra saw ministers, MPs, and MLAs discussing the crisis in Nanded. Outside, farmers expressed their concerns about dying crops, dwindling water supplies, and the fate of their livestock. A video from the meeting, which showed the officials dining on cashews and almonds, went viral, igniting outrage among the farming community. Many farmers believe the current drought is the worst the state has experienced in decades, surpassing the catastrophic drought of 1972.

The ongoing drought has been exacerbated by erratic rainfall patterns attributed to El Niño, severely impacting agricultural output across the state. Farmers are now focused on preserving their perennial plantations, as the loss of these trees and vines would mean a significant setback in their livelihoods, requiring years for new orchards to mature.

In Nashik, a key area for grape cultivation, farmers report that their vines are wilting due to the lack of water. Other fruit growers, including those cultivating pomegranates, bananas, and mangoes, are also struggling to secure sufficient water as wells run dry. The immediate priority for these farmers is to save their crops, as losing the trees would have long-term repercussions.

Extent of Drought and Government Response

The severity of the drought is reflected in the fact that Maharashtra has declared 265 out of its 358 talukas as drought-affected, which accounts for nearly 75 per cent of the state. This declaration follows an 18.8 per cent deficit in rainfall and extended dry spells, particularly impacting the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. The implications of crop loss extend beyond local farmers, as Maharashtra is a leading producer of horticultural products, including grapes, pomegranates, and bananas, which are vital for both domestic consumption and exports.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has warned that the current drought could surpass the devastation of 1972. In response, the government has introduced measures such as loan restructuring and land revenue concessions. However, opposition parties have raised concerns about the lack of immediate financial aid for affected farmers. Many fruit growers assert that their most pressing need is access to water, with some advocating for tanker supplies and even water trains to sustain their crops.

In a bid to address the crisis, Fadnavis met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request financial assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Following this, an inter-ministerial team was dispatched to assess the situation and the extent of crop losses from October 8 to 11.

Impact on Other Fruit Cultivations

The drought’s impact is not limited to grape growers; it is also affecting farmers of mangoes, pomegranates, and bananas. Reports indicate that orange orchards in Amravati have suffered significant damage, with around 5,000 hectares of trees reportedly cut down. Surviving orchards are facing challenges with flowering and fruit development, further jeopardising the harvest.

Experts suggest that farmers might only be able to save about 30 per cent of their fruit production without urgent intervention, such as the provision of shade nets to protect trees from excessive sunlight. The costs associated with these nets are substantial, posing additional financial burdens on farmers already struggling due to the drought.

Maharashtra’s horticultural landscape is extensive, with significant areas dedicated to various fruits. The state had approximately 1.67 lakh hectares under mango cultivation, 1.41 lakh hectares under banana, and 1.19 lakh hectares under grapes in 2024-25. The loss of these crops would not only affect the farmers but also have wider economic implications.

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