Maharashtra Expands Drought Designation to 305 Talukas, Offers ₹5,000 Aid
The Maharashtra government has declared an additional 40 talukas as drought-hit, providing immediate financial assistance to farmers.
Total drought-hit talukas in Maharashtra now stands at 305.
Farmers will receive ₹5,000 in advance relief before Diwali.
The government plans to implement 12 relief measures for affected farmers.
On October 15, 2026, the Maharashtra government announced that 40 more talukas have been designated as drought-hit, bringing the total to 305. This decision comes as part of the state's ongoing efforts to address the severe impact of drought conditions on agriculture and rural livelihoods. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the drought measures will be enforced across all affected regions, emphasizing the urgency of the situation ahead of the Diwali festival.
Previously, 265 talukas were already classified as drought-affected, and with the new additions, the government has activated Trigger 1 and Trigger 2, making these regions eligible for assistance under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). The relief package includes a waiver of examination fees for students in these areas, ensuring that educational opportunities are not hindered by financial constraints during this challenging time.
In outlining the relief measures, Fadnavis highlighted a new fodder policy, assuring farmers that the government would purchase fodder at guaranteed prices to support livestock. Additionally, Minister of State for Relief and Rehabilitation, Makrand Jadhav Patil, announced a comprehensive plan that includes 12 specific measures aimed at alleviating the burden on farmers. These measures encompass exemptions from land revenue, restructuring of crop loans, and a moratorium on the recovery of agriculture-related loans.
The situation has broader implications for water management in the state. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule stressed the need to prioritize the completion of water supply schemes and urged district officials to submit proposals for localized drought responses within 15 days. He emphasized that tankers should only be used as a last resort to combat water scarcity, advocating for proactive measures to secure drinking water supplies.
Looking ahead, the Pune Municipal Corporation has implemented a weekly suspension of water supply every Thursday starting October 15, to manage water resources effectively. The civic body has also restricted the use of drinking water for construction activities, highlighting the need for careful management of water resources amid ongoing drought conditions. As the El Niño effect continues to influence rainfall patterns, authorities are urged to adopt strategic water management practices to mitigate the impact of potential drought scenarios in the future.
