Maharashtra Declares 265 Of 358 Talukas Drought-Affected, Covering Nearly 75% Of State Amid 18.8% Rainfall Deficit
Mumbai: Maharashtra Government on Saturday declared 265 of the 358 talukas in the state as drought-affected, an official notification said. The measure covers 74 per cent area of the state, according to a Government Resolution. राज्यातील २६५ तालुक्यांमध्ये दुष्काळ जाहीर pic.twitter.com/I2ugqUVwwS — Dattatray Bharane (@bharanemamaNCP) September 26, 2026 The decision follows CM Devendra Fadnavis’…
Maharashtra has declared 265 out of its 358 talukas as drought-affected, covering nearly 75% of the state's area in a notification on Saturday. This follows Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' recent visit to affected regions. Many districts, including Dharashiv and Beed, have not seen rainfall since July, impacting crops, livestock, and daily water requirements of farmers and laborers.
Rainfall in Chatrapati Sambhajinagar Division was recorded at 424.5 mm, significantly below the expected 613.1 mm for the period from June 1 to September 18, resulting in a 30.8% deficit. The Pune and Nashik divisions also experienced a 30% deficit, while Amravati and Nagpur divisions saw a 27% deficit. The Konkan division had a 6.3% deficit.
Overall, the state recorded an 18.8% rainfall deficit, with actual rainfall at 755.9 mm compared to the average of 932.3 mm, influenced by the El Niño phenomenon. Six districts recorded a rainfall deficit of 40-50%, including Amravati, Solapur, and Latur. Farmers in several districts have faced crop failure due to the lack of rainfall, and pest and disease incidence has increased.
Protests demanding drought relief measures and compensation for crop loss were held on September 16. The state government plans to conduct crop-damage surveys and ground verification soon, with immediate aid to farmers under first trigger norms.
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