Should Maharashtra Government Declare a Wet-Drought?
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Synopsis
As Maharashtra grapples with the aftermath of heavy rains, the Congress party calls for a wet-drought declaration. With significant agricultural losses reported, farmers are in dire need of financial assistance. Learn how the state government plans to respond to this crisis and what it means for the affected communities.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra is facing a severe agricultural crisis due to heavy rains.
- The Congress party demands a wet-drought declaration.
- Farmers are requesting financial aid of Rs 50,000 per hectare.
- Significant crop losses have been reported across multiple districts.
- Government agencies are on alert to provide immediate support.
Mumbai, Aug 20 (NationPress) The Congress party has urged the state government to officially declare a wet-drought following the devastating impacts of heavy rains and floods on agricultural lands and properties, and to immediately allocate an assistance of Rs 50,000 per hectare to affected farmers.
Harshwardhan Sapkal, the president of Maharashtra Congress, emphasized the urgency of the wet-drought declaration, citing that the recent heavy rains have resulted in significant flooding across various regions of the state. Farmlands have been inundated, leading to catastrophic crop losses, with standing crops being swept away. Agricultural lands spanning over 15 lakh acres have experienced severe damage.
In a formal letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Sapkal highlighted that nearly 17 districts across Marathwada, Vidarbha, and Western Maharashtra have faced severe rainfall, while North Maharashtra and Konkan regions have also incurred substantial damages.
He pointed out that crops such as jowar, bajra, urad, maize, soybean, moong, cotton, tur, fruits, and vegetables have suffered extensive losses. Additionally, thousands of hectares of sugarcane have been adversely affected. In certain areas, farmers’ livestock has been swept away, and in Nanded district, there have even been reports of fatalities. Farmers who were already in distress have been thrust into a deeper crisis due to the calamity.
“While the state government has initiated panchanamas (damage assessments), it is imperative that the government set aside all regulations, conditions, and limitations during this challenging time to provide direct aid to farmers. The Congress Party also insists that the families of those who have lost lives should receive compassionate assistance,” stated Sapkal.
In response, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed all agencies to remain vigilant to manage the ongoing situation.
District collectors have been instructed to offer immediate help in instances of loss of life, livestock, and property damage. Panchanamas for agricultural damages should also be conducted promptly, and measures have been taken to provide compensation according to NDRF standards, he informed reporters after a cabinet meeting that reviewed the circumstances arising from heavy rains.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also assessed the situation caused by the heavy and relentless rains and flash floods affecting various parts of Maharashtra.
“With the Meteorological Department forecasting continued heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, the district administration, disaster management systems, and local governance should stay alert. Instructions have been issued for the district administration to promptly relocate at-risk citizens to safe areas and to ensure that NDRF and SDRF teams are prepared for rescue and relief operations,” he remarked.
Pawar added that directions have also been given for an immediate evaluation of damages to crops, homes, and other properties due to the rainfall and to submit a report to the government. Furthermore, all departments must collaborate to ensure essential services like hospitals, schools, shelters, roads, bridges, electricity, and water supply remain uninterrupted.
Point of View
The ongoing crisis in Maharashtra underscores the urgent need for government intervention in agricultural disasters. The call for a wet-drought declaration highlights the plight of farmers and the necessity for immediate financial support. It reflects a broader concern for agricultural sustainability and community resilience in the face of natural calamities.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wet-drought declaration?
A wet-drought declaration is a formal recognition by the government that heavy rains have led to flooding and significant crop losses, necessitating special assistance for affected farmers.
How much assistance is being requested for farmers?
The Congress party is demanding an assistance of Rs 50,000 per hectare for farmers impacted by the recent heavy rains and flooding.
Which regions in Maharashtra are affected?
The regions severely impacted include Marathwada, Vidarbha, Western Maharashtra, North Maharashtra, and Konkan.
What crops have been affected by the heavy rains?
Crops such as jowar, bajra, urad, maize, soybean, moong, cotton, tur, fruits, and vegetables have all sustained heavy losses due to the flooding.
What measures is the government taking?
The government has instructed district collectors to provide immediate assistance, conduct damage assessments, and ensure that essential services are maintained during this crisis.
