Maharashtra to lease reservoir land for fodder cultivation in 304 drought-hit talukas

The Maharashtra government has announced plans to lease exposed lands in reservoirs and tanks in 304 drought-affected talukas for cultivation of short-term fodder crops. This decision aims to address the shortage of fodder for livestock in regions experiencing reduced rainfall during the 2026 kharif season.

The Soil and Water Conservation Department released technical guidelines on November 5, detailing the process for cultivation, land allocation, and water usage. Farmers will be allowed to grow crops like maize, sorghum, pearl millet, nutrifeed, berseem, and oats on eligible lands. Maize and sorghum for silage production will be given priority.

The measures apply to various types of water bodies, including minor irrigation tanks, storage tanks, percolation tanks, village tanks, and former Malguzari tanks. However, drinking water needs will take precedence over cultivation. Reservoirs supplying drinking water or used for filling water tankers will have existing drinking water reservations, and areas with ongoing repairs or restoration works will not be available for cultivation.

Eligible land is exposed between the reservoir's full level and actual water level, and cultivation will be prohibited within certain distances of the dam and spillways. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides will not be used within 200 meters of drinking water source wells or jackwells. The use of drip and sprinkler irrigation is encouraged.

Land leasing will be done through a joint survey by officials from multiple departments, with the district collector heading a committee. Cultivation will depend on existing soil moisture, with protective irrigation allowed only under specific conditions. Beneficiaries must complete harvest and return the land by May 31, 2027. The government will release funds for plantation upkeep, but violations can lead to permission cancellation and liability for damages.