Dhananjay Munde Seeks Special Cabinet Meet Over Marathwada Drought

Beed-based Nationalist Congress Party leader Dhananjay Munde has requested Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to convene a special cabinet session in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on or around September 17 to tackle the severe drought situation in Marathwada. Munde wrote to Fadnavis requesting an urgent financial aid package for farmers struggling due to the monsoon deficit.

The prolonged dry spell during the Kharif season has adversely impacted agriculture in the region, with Marathwada receiving less than 50% of its usual seasonal rainfall. This has left standing Kharif crops severely damaged and farmers facing financial ruin. Wells, dams, and reservoirs are depleted, raising concerns over both drinking water availability and fodder for livestock.

Munde noted that the state government usually observes Marathwada Liberation Day on September 17 in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, an occasion which could be utilized for a full cabinet meeting in the city. He suggested holding the meeting on an alternative date if needed. Munde pointed out that the government should formally declare drought in Beed and the broader Marathwada region to enable statutory relief measures and loan waivers.

He also sought immediate direct financial compensation for Kharif crop losses and assistance to prepare the farmers for the upcoming Rabi season. Additionally, Munde called for an emergency plan to ensure drinking water supply via tankers and establish fodder camps for cattle. Munde added that several areas in Vidarbha and North Maharashtra are also experiencing rainfall deficits and urged the government to hold specific cabinet discussions for these regions and take swift action to protect affected farming communities.