Should the Maharashtra Government Provide Immediate Relief of Rs 50,000 per Hectare to Farmers Affected by Unseasonal Rains?
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Synopsis
In Maharashtra, farmers are reeling from unseasonal rains that have devastated crops and livestock. Former minister Balasaheb Thorat calls for immediate relief of Rs 50,000 per hectare, bypassing lengthy assessments. As farming costs soar, the government faces pressure to act decisively. Will they respond to the urgent needs of the agrarian community?
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra farmers demand immediate relief of Rs 50,000 per hectare.
- Unseasonal rains have caused severe crop damage.
- Farming costs are rising, putting further pressure on farmers.
- The government has been criticized for slow response to farmers' needs.
- Loan waivers promised during elections remain unfulfilled.
Mumbai, June 2 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government is urged to deliver an immediate relief package of Rs 50,000 per hectare to farmers affected by unseasonal rains, as expressed by Congress Working Committee member and former minister Balasaheb Thorat on Monday.
"Maharashtra has endured relentless pre-monsoon rains for three weeks, leading to significant crop losses and a dire situation for livestock fodder. Farmers, already facing hardships, are now further impacted by these unseasonal conditions. As the economic backbone, they require the government's immediate assistance. Thus, we call for an urgent relief package of Rs 50,000 per hectare, bypassing the prolonged assessment processes," stated Thorat.
He informed reporters that the rains struck just as several crops were nearing harvest in May, with severe damage reported to bananas and Kesar mangoes, alongside vegetables, tomatoes, onions, and pomegranates. Many homes collapsed, livestock perished, and a serious fodder shortage has emerged, alongside damage to roads and cattle shelters.
"With preparations for Kharif sowing underway, farmers are left financially drained and devastated. The government shows no signs of support. Whether aid comes under NDRF or SDRF guidelines is irrelevant; farmers urgently need substantial assistance. The government's shift from a 3-hectare to 2-hectare aid eligibility is further unjust. Even crop insurance schemes are failing due to changed criteria. While damage assessments have been ordered, no tangible actions are visible on the field," Thorat remarked.
He further emphasized that District guardian ministers should conduct tours to assess the situation, yet this has been lacking. Currently, the cost of cultivating onions is Rs 60,000 per acre, and tomatoes Rs 50,000 per acre. With farming becoming increasingly costly, substantial government support is essential during this crisis.
"During the election campaign, BJP alliance leaders pledged loan waivers, but they seem to have forgotten these promises after assuming power. The Congress and MVA governments consistently supported farmers and announced waivers. However, the current government remains silent on this matter, leading to growing discontent among the farming community. Instead of issuing empty promises, the government must declare a loan waiver," emphasized Thorat.
In response to controversial remarks from Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate, Thorat stated that in distressing times, farmers require reassurance rather than hurtful comments. Claiming to be a guardian while making insensitive statements is unacceptable. "The role of the Agriculture Minister is significant—I have held this position, and so did Sharad Pawar as the Union Agriculture Minister. However, it's unclear why Kokate perceives it merely as a local leadership role. If the Agriculture Ministry is akin to leading a barren village, he should clarify which department manages fertile, irrigated lands," he concluded.
Point of View
Immediate government intervention is crucial to address the plight of farmers in Maharashtra facing unseasonal rains. The demands for a relief package reflect the growing urgency of supporting the agricultural sector, which remains vital to the nation’s economy. A balanced approach is needed to ensure timely aid while maintaining accountability in the distribution processes.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relief amount being proposed for farmers?
The proposed relief amount is Rs 50,000 per hectare for farmers affected by unseasonal rains.
Why are farmers in Maharashtra seeking immediate assistance?
Farmers are experiencing significant crop losses and a shortage of fodder due to unseasonal rains, which have persisted for three weeks.
What crops have been affected by the unseasonal rains?
Crops like bananas, Kesar mangoes, vegetables, tomatoes, onions, and pomegranates have suffered severe damage.
What are the current farming costs in Maharashtra?
Cultivating onions costs around Rs 60,000 per acre, while tomatoes cost Rs 50,000 per acre.
What has been the government's response to farmers' plight?
The government has ordered damage assessments, but farmers feel that no real action has been taken to provide timely assistance.
