Will the government extend aid to flood-affected farmers before Diwali?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As Maharashtra faces significant agricultural losses due to severe flooding, Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane announces impending support for farmers ahead of Diwali. With extensive damage reported, the government prioritizes relief efforts to safeguard the agricultural community during this challenging time.
Key Takeaways
- 1.25 to 1.50 crore acres of farmland affected.
- Government support planned before Diwali.
- Significant damage to soybean and cotton crops.
- Damage assessment reports to be completed by October 5.
- Government prioritizes assistance to farmers.
Mumbai, Sep 30 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane revealed on Tuesday that approximately 1.25 to 1.50 crore acres of farmland in the state have suffered due to severe rains and flooding. He confirmed that the state government is set to provide assistance to farmers ahead of Diwali.
“Initial assessments indicate that around 1.25 to 1.50 crore acres of farmland have been impacted. Notably, almost one crore acres were devastated just in September,” Bharane informed the media.
“Addressing the farmers' plight is our main concern. The current support is inadequate,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, he noted, “We will explore every possible concession for farmers that apply during times of scarcity.”
Many regions in central Maharashtra have experienced intense rainfall since the onset of the monsoon, resulting in extensive crop destruction. The kharif season has particularly seen substantial losses in soybean and cotton crops, he added.
Meanwhile, a revenue department official stated that the assessment of damages is ongoing.
“Certain regions remain unreachable. Officials have been instructed to physically assess affected areas to ensure no farmer is overlooked. Initial estimates suggest that nearly 40 percent of the cultivated area is entirely ruined,” he mentioned.
According to the official, damage assessment reports are anticipated to be finalized by October 5.
In a separate statement to reporters in Nagpur, Maharashtra's Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule stated that the government is finalizing relief strategies.
“By October 5, all damage assessment reports will be completed. Based on these findings, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar will convene to discuss financial aid and other measures for the farmers affected by rain and floods,” he shared.
Bawankule reassured that supporting the impacted farming community is the government’s top priority.
“While the Maharashtra government may postpone some projects, it will prioritize support for our farmers in terms of facilitation and assistance,” he added.
He also mentioned that “the government will strive to align with the norms of the NDRF.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the government's commitment to timely assistance. The urgency portrayed by Maharashtra's officials demonstrates a proactive approach towards disaster management and support for the agricultural sector, which is vital for the country's economy.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many acres of farmland were affected by the floods?
Approximately 1.25 to 1.50 crore acres of farmland in Maharashtra have been impacted due to heavy rains and floods.
When is the government planning to provide assistance?
The Maharashtra government is set to extend support to farmers before Diwali.
What types of crops were primarily damaged?
The kharif season has seen significant damage, particularly to soybean and cotton crops.
When will the damage assessment reports be completed?
The damage assessment reports are expected to be finalized by October 5.
What is the government's priority in response to the floods?
The government's priority is to support the affected farming community and provide necessary assistance.
