Maharashtra Farmers Demand Rs 60,000 Per Acre Amid Drought Assessment

Farmers in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district are calling for compensation of up to Rs 60,000 per acre as they face devastating losses from prolonged drought conditions. A central team, led by Muktanand Agrawal from the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, began inspecting affected fields on Friday to evaluate the extent of the damage. The delegation visited local farms, including that of farmer Vilas Shinde, to gather firsthand accounts of the crisis.

The farmers have expressed frustration over the slow pace of compensation processes, urging officials to expedite assistance rather than prolonging surveys and formalities. Many cultivators reported that their soybean, cotton, and maize crops have been severely impacted, leading to financial distress as they struggle to repay loans and manage household expenses. Sainath Shinde, a local farmer, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, "We have lost our entire harvest after spending around Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 per acre. Direct assistance must be released immediately."

In addition to immediate financial relief, farmers like Somnath Shinde are advocating for long-term solutions, including investments in water conservation infrastructure. He noted that recurring dry spells have not only devastated crops but also left livestock without food and families unable to pay school fees. Shinde called for the government to construct dams and barrages to ensure sustainable water management for future agricultural needs.

The Maharashtra government officially declared drought in 265 of the state's 358 talukas on September 26, affecting approximately 74 percent of the region. The declaration came amid a significant rainfall deficit, prompting the government to announce various relief measures, including crop loan restructuring and subsidies on land revenue and electricity bills. The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division is the hardest hit, with 74 drought-affected talukas, followed by Amravati and Nashik.

The central assessment team, which includes experts from various agricultural and governmental departments, is expected to continue inspections over the next few days. Following their evaluations, they will compile a report detailing the findings and recommendations for addressing the crisis. Farmers remain hopeful that swift action will be taken to alleviate their suffering and secure their livelihoods.