Maharashtra declares drought in 305 talukas, announces Rs 5,000 Diwali bonus for farmers: Fadnavis

Maharashtra drought relief: ₹5,000 for farmers ahead of Diwali

Maharashtra will deposit ₹5,000 in farmers’ accounts before Diwali as drought relief expands to 305 talukas, with loan recovery curbs and water measures.

85% of Maharashtra talukas face drought; Devendra Fadnavis promises ₹5,000 aid before Diwali

The government initially declared 265 talukas drought-affected last month, citing a rainfall deficit, and announced several relief measures, including restructuring crop loans, waiving land revenue and providing subsidies on electricity bills.

Fadnavis announces Rs 5,000 per farmer before Diwali as drought relief advance

Fadnavis said the Centre’s rules make it impossible to release drought assistance before the festival, so the state will pay an advance from its own funds.

Drought-Hit Maharashtra Farmers To Get Rs 5,000 Aid Before Diwali

Devendra Fadnavis also said Rs 5,000 would be deposited in farmers' bank accounts before Diwali to provide initial financial assistance ahead of the festival.

Maharashtra declares drought in 305 talukas, announces Rs 5,000 Diwali bonus for farmers: Fadnavis

“Earlier, drought was declared in 265 talukas. Today, we have declared drought in a total of 305 talukas. We have checked old records; normally help is given in December. But this time we have declared drought in advance,” he said.

Maharashtra adds 40 talukas to drought list, to pay farmers ₹5K each before Diwali

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said there were demands from various areas to include their talukas to the list