Maharashtra has formally declared drought across 265 of its 358 talukas, bringing nearly three-fourths of the state under drought relief measures. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the government was treating the situation with urgency, particularly in parts of Marathwada and western Maharashtra where deficient rainfall has damaged crops, strained water supplies and affected farmers and rural communities.
The announcement comes after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assessed the situation on the ground in several drought-hit areas. Earlier this week, he described conditions in Latur and Dharashiv districts in the Marathwada region as extremely serious. According to the chief minister, the two districts had received only about half of their normal rainfall this year.
During his visit to Nilanga tehsil in Latur, Fadnavis met farmers and took stock of water shortages and crop losses. He subsequently visited affected areas of Dharashiv and inspected soybean crops in the Barshi region of Solapur district.
Fadnavis said crop-loss surveys were being conducted, but the extent of damage was already visible. He said the government had collected reports from the affected areas and was acting on them. He also assured farmers that the existing loan-waiver programme would continue while arrangements were being made for water and fodder.
Under the drought relief measures, farmers will receive exemption from land revenue, while crop loans will be restructured and recovery of agricultural loans will be prohibited. Relief has also been announced on electricity bills for agricultural pumps.
The government has decided to extend the electricity exemption to pumps with capacities higher than 7.5 horsepower, in addition to the existing waiver for pumps up to that capacity. The power connections of agricultural pumps in villages facing water scarcity will also not be disconnected.
The relief package extends beyond agriculture. School and college students in drought-affected areas will receive concessions in examination fees. The government will also create additional employment opportunities by relaxing provisions under the Employment Guarantee Scheme.
Drinking water arrangements will be strengthened through tankers wherever necessary. Measures will also be taken to ensure adequate fodder for cattle and other livestock dependent on rural households.
The government has directed District Collectors to complete the panchnama process at the earliest so that crop losses can be properly assessed. Officials have also been instructed to collect photographs and GPS-based evidence documenting crop conditions, providing a more detailed record of the damage.
Large-scale water conservation works are also planned as part of the response. Arrangements for drinking water for people and water for animals will continue under existing government orders.
The drought declaration is significant because it formally recognises the impact of inadequate rainfall and related water shortages on agriculture and rural livelihoods. In India, drought declarations are made by state governments based on prevailing conditions and established assessment mechanisms, while the Centre provides guidelines and can extend assistance.
Drought is generally associated with prolonged rainfall deficiency, but its consequences can extend well beyond precipitation. Crop failures, declining water availability, pressure on livestock, loss of rural employment and migration can deepen the economic and social impact.
For Maharashtra, the immediate challenge will be ensuring that the announced relief reaches affected communities quickly. With 265 talukas now covered by the drought declaration, the administration faces the task of coordinating water supply, agricultural assistance, employment support and relief for livestock across a large part of the state.
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