Maharashtra Forms 12-Member Group to Address Drought Issues
A new study group has been established to devise strategies for drought management and fodder shortages in Maharashtra.
A 12-member study group has been formed to tackle drought.
265 talukas in Maharashtra have been declared drought-affected.
The group will assess fodder availability and future requirements.
The Maharashtra government has established a 12-member study group aimed at addressing the pressing issues of drought and fodder shortages in the state. This initiative was announced in a government resolution issued by the animal husbandry, dairy development, and fisheries department on Tuesday. The group will be led by the additional chief secretary for revenue, following a decision made during a cabinet sub-committee meeting on September 29.
The formation of this sub-committee was prompted by a relief and rehabilitation department order dated September 22, which sought to review the drought conditions resulting from inadequate rainfall. Currently, 265 talukas across Maharashtra have been officially declared as drought-affected, necessitating immediate action to mitigate the impact on agriculture and livestock.
The study group comprises additional chief secretaries from various departments, including finance, planning, energy, and forests, as well as principal secretaries from relief and rehabilitation, cooperation, soil and water conservation, and water resources. The group also includes secretaries from agriculture, rural development, and animal husbandry, with the latter's secretary serving as the member-secretary. The group has the flexibility to invite officers from other departments as required.
The group's mandate includes reviewing previous drought management strategies implemented in Maharashtra and other states to derive effective solutions. Additionally, it will evaluate the current availability of fodder, project future production, and assess the requirements for the upcoming months to ensure adequate supply. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a robust framework for addressing the challenges posed by drought.
In addition to focusing on drought and fodder, the group will explore other related issues and propose measures to address them. A report detailing their findings and recommendations will be submitted to key government officials, including the chief minister, deputy chief ministers, and the chief secretary, ensuring that the findings are disseminated to all relevant stakeholders.
