Is There Really No Wet Drought? Maharashtra CM Announces Relief Measures for Farmers
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Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis clarified the absence of 'wet drought' in official terms while committing to provide drought-like relief to farmers affected by recent floods. With the state facing challenges, this decision aims to alleviate farmers' struggles and ensure timely financial support ahead of Diwali.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra CM clarifies the absence of 'wet drought'.
- Financial relief package of Rs 2,215 crore announced.
- Direct deposit of funds to farmers' accounts before Diwali.
- Ongoing assessment of agricultural damage due to floods.
- No official declaration of 'wet drought'.
Mumbai, Sep 30 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Tuesday that the term wet drought does not exist in official terminology; however, he revealed that the state government will extend the same benefits typically provided during drought conditions to the state's farmers.
The Chief Minister noted that the state Cabinet conducted a thorough assessment of the damage inflicted on agriculture and other properties due to severe rainfall and flooding in Marathwada and various regions of the state.
He highlighted that preliminary estimates indicate that approximately 60 lakh hectares of agricultural land has been impacted by the relentless rains and floods.
"There is an ongoing request for a declaration of wet drought, but such a classification is absent from the official guidelines. To date, a wet drought has never been proclaimed. Nonetheless, the Cabinet has decided that the government will offer benefits and concessions to those affected similar to those provided during drought situations. The government will implement corresponding measures to support farmers facing drought-related challenges. As we compile the data on damages, we expect to complete this within the next two to four days," the Chief Minister stated.
He mentioned that an announcement regarding a relief package for farmers would be made by the following week.
Chief Minister Fadnavis added that the state government has initiated the distribution of Rs 2,215 crore to farmers, assuring that the funds will be deposited directly into the accounts of the impacted farmers before Diwali.
He also indicated that the e-KYC requirement has been eased during this assistance process.
His announcement arrives amidst demands from the Opposition parties, including Shiv Sena-UBT, Congress, and NCP-SP, urging the state government to declare wet drought and offer financial aid of Rs 50,000 per hectare.
The Opposition has called on Governor Acharya Devvrat to convene a special three-day session of the State Legislature to address the effects of the monsoon devastation and the urgent financial support required for farmers and residents.
Last week, Chief Minister Fadnavis submitted separate memorandums to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking significant assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
He informed Union Minister Shah that the Maharashtra government requires a substantial allocation from the NDRF to adequately support affected farmers and assist in their recovery.
Access to maximum NDRF assistance will facilitate support for loss of land, aid for flood-affected families, assistance for damaged homes, and help for affected properties, he noted.
A comprehensive proposal for supporting flood-impacted agricultural land is being forwarded to the Central government, he added.
He expressed profound concern regarding the circumstances resulting from heavy rains and floods across numerous districts in Maharashtra, stating that it has led to unprecedented destruction of agricultural land and severely disrupted the livelihoods of countless farmers throughout the state.
Point of View
The importance of swift and effective government intervention in times of crisis cannot be overstated. The Maharashtra government's decision to provide relief to farmers highlights the necessity of supporting the agricultural community during unprecedented weather events. Ensuring farmers receive timely assistance is crucial for rebuilding livelihoods and sustaining the nation's food security.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the Maharashtra government taking for farmers?
The Maharashtra government is providing financial assistance similar to drought relief measures, including a relief package of Rs 2,215 crore for farmers affected by floods.
What is the estimated area affected by the floods?
Preliminary assessments indicate that approximately 60 lakh hectares of agricultural land have been affected due to heavy rains and flooding in the state.
When will the relief funds be disbursed to farmers?
The government aims to deposit the relief funds directly into farmers' accounts before Diwali.
Is there a declaration of wet drought in Maharashtra?
The Chief Minister clarified that there is no official recognition of 'wet drought' in the state's guidelines, despite ongoing demands from opposition parties.
What support is being requested from the National Disaster Response Fund?
The Maharashtra government is seeking maximum relief allocation from the NDRF to assist affected farmers with land damage and livelihood rebuilding.
