Maharashtra Expands Crop Damage Assessment To Revenue Circle Level, Opens Door For Aid To Farmers Outside Drought List

The Maharashtra government has broadened its assessment of crop damage to the revenue circle level, potentially providing financial aid to farmers in regions that did not meet the traditional drought criteria but have suffered significant agricultural losses. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made this announcement following a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, stating that the government would consider factors beyond technical parameters while evaluating the impact of the unpredictable rainfall pattern this year.

Out of Maharashtra's 358 talukas, 265 have already been declared drought-affected, but several areas outside this initial list have reported crop damage following heavy rainfall early in the monsoon season, followed by prolonged dry spells. Fadnavis acknowledged that several ministers had raised concerns about crop losses in their respective areas during the Cabinet meeting and requested assistance for farmers who did not meet the existing criteria.

This year's situation is unique, with heavy rainfall during the first two months of the monsoon and no rainfall in the subsequent two months. The government has decided to conduct a more comprehensive assessment, including at the mandal level (revenue circle), to identify specific pockets within a taluka where crops have been severely impacted.

A committee has been established to examine individual talukas and propose assistance where needed. Fadnavis emphasized that farmers should be informed about the details recorded during the assessment, and the sub-committee will make decisions even if farmers are absent during the panchnama, or assessment process. The Chief Minister also directed the government to prioritize water usage, giving precedence to drinking water and livestock water before other needs.

Additionally, he instructed district planning committees to focus on drought mitigation efforts and suggested waiving examination fees for students to provide immediate relief.