Archive · 19 Sep 2026
Maharashtra Faces Drought-Like Conditions as Government Prepares Farmer Relief
Several parts of Maharashtra have not received enough rain.
The dry period has damaged crops that farmers were growing.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asked ministers to check the situation in their districts.
The first checks are expected to finish within a week.
Officials will then conduct formal crop surveys.
The government says it will provide urgent help to affected farmers.
It also plans to arrange drinking water and animal fodder.
Extra electricity is being supplied to farmers in the evenings.
The government said its fodder programme was created because an El Nino-related crisis was expected.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said several Maharashtra districts face a drought-like situation.
A break in rainfall damaged standing crops, prompting preliminary district-level assessments.
Official crop surveys and immediate assistance are expected after the preliminary review.
The government plans drinking-water and fodder arrangements and is speeding up loan-waiver lists.
IMD data showed a 15% nationwide rainfall deficit, with a 29% deficit in the Southern Peninsula.
- Who
- The Maharashtra government, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, ministers, and farmers.
- What
- Several Maharashtra districts are facing drought-like conditions, with crop damage and preparations for relief.
- When
- The announcement was made on Saturday; the preliminary review is expected to be completed within a week.
- Where
- Several districts of Maharashtra, which is part of India's Southern Peninsula.
- Why
- A break in rainfall damaged standing crops, while broader rainfall deficits have affected the region.
- Affected area
- Several districts in Maharashtra
- Immediate assessment
- Ministers were instructed to conduct preliminary district-level assessments.
- Formal surveys
- Official crop surveys, or panchnamas, will follow the preliminary review.
- Planned assistance
- The government said it would provide urgent farmer assistance and arrange drinking water and fodder.
- Loan waiver
- Three lists had been issued, with remaining lists being expedited.
- National rainfall deficit
- India recorded a 15% rainfall deficit between June 4 and September 19, according to IMD data.
- Southern Peninsula deficit
- The Southern Peninsula recorded a 29% rainfall deficit.