1 hr ago
Maharashtra Orders Free Grain for 265 Drought-Hit Talukas
Maharashtra has ordered free foodgrains for eligible people in 265 areas affected by drought.
The order applies to the 2026 kharif season, after too little rain fell between June and September.
People who need food but are not yet covered by the scheme can ask authorities to be included, if they meet the rules.
People who move to find work or water can collect their ration from a convenient fair price shop.
The government says officials must make sure migrant families can get their food.
Officials have also been told to prepare supplies early and stop illegal hoarding and selling.
Maharashtra ordered immediate, uninterrupted free foodgrain supplies to eligible people in 265 drought-hit talukas for the 2026 kharif season.
The talukas were declared drought-hit under Trigger-1 after deficient rainfall between June and September.
Needy people not already covered by the food security scheme may be included in Antyodaya or Priority Household categories, subject to income criteria.
Ration portability will allow migrant workers and other eligible residents to collect foodgrains from convenient fair price shops under One Nation One Ration Card.
Officials were directed to plan distribution in advance and act against black-marketing and illegal hoarding.
- Who
- Eligible residents, including farmers, farm labourers, needy households and migrant workers in the affected talukas.
- What
- The Maharashtra government ordered free foodgrains and emphasized ration portability for eligible beneficiaries.
- Where
- 265 drought-hit talukas in Maharashtra.
- When
- For the 2026 kharif season; the order was issued on a Wednesday after deficient rainfall between June and September.
- Why
- To help people affected by drought access foodgrains without difficulty or shortages.
Key facts
- Affected areas
- 265 talukas declared drought-hit under Trigger-1
- Season
- 2026 kharif season
- Rainfall period cited
- June to September
- Food benefit
- Free foodgrains for eligible beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act
- New applicants
- Needy people may be included in Antyodaya or Priority Household categories, subject to prescribed income criteria
- Ration portability
- Eligible people may collect foodgrains at a convenient fair price shop through One Nation One Ration Card
- Required facility
- Aadhaar seeding for all members listed on a ration card is mandatory
Sources
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