Maharashtra Seeks Urgent NDRF Aid Amid Severe Drought
Chief Minister Fadnavis meets with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss drought relief efforts in Maharashtra.
Drought declared in over 265 talukas of Maharashtra.
Central government team to assess drought impact from October 8 to 11.
Maharashtra government has announced a relief package for affected regions.
Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called for urgent assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to address the severe drought conditions affecting the state. In a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, Fadnavis highlighted the dire situation in over 265 talukas that have been officially declared drought-hit. He emphasized the necessity for maximum support from the NDRF to mitigate the impact on the affected populations.
During the meeting, Fadnavis provided an overview of the measures implemented by the Maharashtra government to combat the drought and the ongoing challenges faced by residents in the affected areas. He noted that the drought has been exacerbated by erratic monsoon rainfall, leading to significant crop losses and water shortages. Fadnavis expressed gratitude towards Shah for the assurance of support from the Central government, which he stated would play a crucial role in the state's recovery efforts.
The Central government is taking proactive steps to address the crisis, having formed an inter-ministerial team led by Agriculture Department Joint Secretary Muktanand Agrawal. This team will be in Maharashtra from October 8 to 11 to assess the situation comprehensively, including evaluating crop damage and water scarcity. Their findings will be pivotal in determining the extent of assistance needed and will inform the relief measures that can be implemented.
The drought has severely impacted nearly three-fourths of Maharashtra's talukas, prompting the state government to announce a relief package aimed at supporting those affected. Fadnavis has also indicated that additional areas not initially included in the drought declaration may be considered for relief, as the effects of the drought have been felt widely across the region.
Looking ahead, the assessment by the Central team is expected to clarify the level of support required for Maharashtra's recovery. The findings will guide future decisions regarding relief efforts for farmers and communities grappling with the ongoing drought crisis. The situation remains critical, and timely assistance will be essential to alleviate the hardships faced by those in drought-stricken areas.
