Maharashtra Declares Drought In 265 Talukas; 8 From Pune District Included, Relief Measures Announced

Maharashtra has declared 265 out of its 358 talukas to be in a drought situation, including eight talukas located within Pune district. This decision followed a prolonged dry spell and rainfall deficiency that impacted the kharif season. Pune talukas affected include Bhor, Velhe, Khed, Shirur, Baramati, Indapur, Daund and Purandar.

The statement came after the Maharashtra government activated Trigger-1 under its drought management framework, which is triggered by a rainfall deficit of over 25% coupled with a dry spell of at least 21 days. The government's assessment also took into account other drought indicators and the report of the Agriculture Commissioner.

Nearly three-fourths of Maharashtra's talukas are affected by this drought declaration, triggering immediate relief measures in the impacted regions. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar visited several villages in Pune to personally inspect the impact of the drought on agriculture and hear the concerns of the farmers who are demanding financial aid without any conditions.

The relief package includes concessions on land revenue, restructuring of short-term crop loans, postponement of loan recovery, and waivers on electricity bills for agricultural pumps. Furthermore, the government has waived examination fees for students in affected areas, relaxed norms under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to create more employment opportunities, and has assured the availability of foodgrains and water for affected farmers and agricultural laborers.

Measures to conserve water and ensure fodder for animals are also being implemented. However, the final compensation for crop losses is yet to be announced, with a separate government resolution expected after the assessment and verification process is concluded.