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Fadnavis Promises Drought Declaration, Loan Waivers Amid Maharashtra Crisis

Maharashtra is facing serious problems because crops are failing and water is becoming scarce.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited affected areas to see the damage.

He said the government would officially declare a severe drought in the worst-hit regions.

Farmers who were missed by earlier loan waiver programs may also receive help.

The government plans to provide drinking water and fodder for cattle.

Officials are also checking crop damage in villages.

Fadnavis said both Kharif and Rabi crops would be considered for financial aid.

He said the situation was even worse than the drought of 1972.

Key facts

Official drought order: Fadnavis said a Government Resolution would be issued within two days.
Loan waiver: Eligible farmers excluded from earlier schemes will be covered.
Relief measures: The administration is arranging drinking water, cattle fodder and crop damage assessments.
Crop seasons: Financial aid will consider damage to both Kharif and Rabi crops.
Latur rainfall: Fadnavis said current rainfall there had fallen to 50 per cent, compared with 63 per cent during previous drought years.
Additional government action: Pending bills for water supply schemes will be cleared to help villages receive drinking water.
Historical comparison: Fadnavis described the current conditions as more severe than the 1972 drought.

thehansindia.com · 2 hrs ago