Chandrashekhar Bawankule Assesses Crop Damage in Akola and Buldhana
Revenue Minister Bawankule promises support for drought-affected farmers during his visit to inspect crop losses.
Bawankule inspected damaged crops in Akola and Buldhana districts.
The government aims to provide comprehensive assistance to affected farmers.
Farmers are urged to report grievances related to loans and water scarcity.
On Friday, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule visited the drought-stricken Akola and Buldhana districts to assess the damage to crops, particularly soyabean. During his visit, he engaged with local farmers to gauge the extent of their losses and the challenges posed by the ongoing water scarcity. Bawankule assured the farmers that the state government would extend all possible support to help them navigate this crisis.
The minister's visit comes at a time when farmers in the region are increasingly distressed due to a significant deficiency in rainfall and dwindling water resources. In areas such as Yeota in Akola taluka and Manki in Balapur taluka, Bawankule closely examined the affected crops and listened to the farmers' concerns regarding water shortages, agricultural losses, and outstanding loans.
Bawankule emphasized the importance of conducting accurate assessments of crop damage, directing the district administration to expedite this process. These assessments are essential for determining the financial assistance that can be provided to farmers and for maximizing support from the central government under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) guidelines. He reiterated the government's commitment to delivering comprehensive aid, which includes provisions for drinking water, livestock fodder, rural employment, and initiatives to conserve and recharge water resources.
Highlighting the need for effective water management, Bawankule called for the implementation of the principle that water should be retained within villages and farms. He also instructed banks and credit societies to refrain from harassing farmers or engaging in coercive loan recovery practices during the drought. Farmers were encouraged to report any exploitation by illegal moneylenders directly to the administration.
In addition to assessing crop damage, Bawankule reviewed the allocation of district planning funds for drought relief and the execution of the Ahilyadevi Holkar debt relief scheme. He was accompanied by Labour Minister Akash Fundkar, MP Anup Dhotre, and several local MLAs and administrative officials, all of whom are focused on addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural community in these districts.
