More than 85 per cent of talukas in Maharashtra have been classified as drought-affected, following the state government’s decision to add 40 more talukas to the existing list. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the total number of affected talukas has risen to 305 out of 358. This declaration was made on Wednesday, highlighting the severity of the situation in the state.

The government had initially identified 265 talukas as drought-affected last month due to a significant deficit in rainfall. In response to complaints and a review process, the additional 40 talukas were included in the drought-hit list. A supplementary Government Resolution has been issued to formalise this expansion, ensuring that all affected areas receive necessary relief measures.

Fadnavis explained that the drought declarations are typically made by the end of November, with assistance usually commencing in December. However, due to the critical circumstances, the government has expedited the notification process to October this year.

Immediate Financial Assistance for Farmers

In a bid to provide immediate relief, the Maharashtra government will transfer ₹5,000 to the bank accounts of farmers before the Diwali festival. Fadnavis stated that this advance payment is essential, as the complete administrative process and central assessment would take considerable time and could not be legally finalised before the festival.

Additionally, the state has processed a verified list of approximately 3.5 lakh farmers who are eligible for scheduled debt relief payments. This initiative is being implemented alongside other drought relief measures. The government has also revised outdated provisions from a 1992 resolution that restricted educational fee waivers for children of farmers, ensuring broader applicability across drought-affected areas.

Fadnavis emphasised that District Central Co-operative banks and credit societies have been instructed to refrain from pressuring farmers for loan repayments or employing coercive recovery tactics. The government is also extending similar directives to private banks and financial institutions to protect farmers from undue pressure regarding outstanding electricity bills.

Water Supply and Fodder Management Initiatives

Amid worsening water scarcity, Fadnavis reported that groundwater levels in observation wells throughout Marathwada have fallen below 3 metres. In response, the government is preparing to deploy water tankers as early as October and November. All water tankers will be monitored using GPS tracking systems to ensure efficient distribution.

To safeguard drinking water supplies, the state has disconnected nearly 16,000 illegal water connections and has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards unauthorised water extraction. This initiative aims to manage the dwindling water resources effectively.

In terms of fodder availability, the chief minister noted that it currently ranges from 90 days to seven months, depending on the region. Farmers with access to irrigation facilities are being encouraged to cultivate rabi jowar and fodder crops to support livestock needs. Fadnavis assured farmers that the state government would purchase all harvested fodder at the Minimum Support Price.

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