Maharashtra Declares Drought in 85% Talukas, Announces ₹5,000 Diwali Aid for Farmers
What Happened
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that 305 of 358 talukas have been declared drought-hit after adding 40 more regions to the list. This brings over 85% of the state under drought declaration. To provide immediate assistance, the government will deposit ₹5,000 in farmers’ bank accounts before Diwali. Fadnavis explained that full administrative and central assessment procedures take time, so the state advanced relief measures. Alongside financial aid, the government extended 12 standard drought concessions, including crop loan restructuring, land revenue concessions, electricity subsidies, and fee waivers for farmers’ children. District cooperative banks were warned against coercive loan recoveries, and GPS tracking of water tankers will be introduced to manage drinking water supply.
Key Takeaways
The announcement reflects the severity of Maharashtra’s drought crisis, with most of the state affected. Immediate cash aid aims to help farmers manage festival expenses, while broader relief measures target agriculture, education, and water security.