Maharashtra Faces Zero Crop Yields in Drought-Affected Areas
A recent survey reveals alarming zero yields in several drought-hit talukas of Maharashtra, prompting urgent government action.
Zero yields reported in multiple drought-affected talukas of Maharashtra.
State government has declared drought in 265 out of 358 talukas.
Central team to submit detailed report on crop losses and water scarcity.
The situation for kharif crops in Maharashtra's drought-stricken regions has reached a critical point, with reports of zero yields emerging from various talukas. This alarming assessment comes from a member of the central inter-ministerial delegation that recently completed a three-day survey of the affected areas. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed concerns that the ongoing water scarcity may hinder farmers' ability to recover losses in the upcoming rabi season.
The 11-member delegation's findings highlighted extensive damage to crops and severe depletion of water resources across Marathwada, Vidarbha, and parts of western Maharashtra, including Solapur and Ahilyanagar. The delegation noted significant challenges regarding drinking water availability for livestock. While there is no set deadline for the final report, members indicated it would be ready shortly.
In a meeting chaired by CM Fadnavis with the delegation and senior agriculture officials, the state government revealed that drought has been declared in 265 of the 358 talukas, which accounts for approximately 74% of Maharashtra. The state has requested Rs 17,500 crore in drought relief from the central government. The central team has asked for a comprehensive memorandum detailing the extent of crop losses and anticipated water shortages.
Fadnavis reported that the central government has committed to convening an inter-ministerial meeting soon to expedite assistance. He stated that the state government is preparing a detailed report based on statistical data as per central government guidelines. Muktanand Agarwal, the joint secretary in the Union agriculture department, who led the delegation, mentioned that team members spent over ten hours daily documenting the conditions in affected villages.
The soybean crop has been particularly hard hit due to a two-month interruption in rainfall, with cotton, tur, and sugarcane crops also suffering significant damage. Fadnavis noted that the existing fodder stock in various districts is expected to last between 90 to 120 days, and production will be increased in watershed areas. The government plans to purchase available fodder at a fixed rate and arrange for its storage, with potential procurement from other states if necessary. A senior agriculture department official stated that the ground-truthing exercise and crop-loss assessments are expected to be completed by October 20, with the final memorandum likely submitted to the Centre before October 23. Meanwhile, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde announced that his party will support drought-affected farmers, including taking responsibility for their children's marriages.
