New Delhi: The fortunes of farmers are set to improve, as the government prepares to open its coffers. The Maharashtra government has announced a major Diwali gift for approximately 15 million (1.5 crore) drought-affected farmers across the state, deciding to provide them with advance financial aid of Rs 5,000. Following a state cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis instructed officials to ensure that this amount is credited directly into the farmers’ bank accounts this week, well before Diwali.
Increased Burden on the State Exchequer
This announcement will place an additional burden on the state’s exchequer. Providing Rs 5,000 in financial assistance to around 15 million farmers is expected to cost a total of Rs 7,500 crore. The Chief Minister has also directed bank officials not to deduct any portion of this relief amount toward the recovery of the farmers’ existing loans or outstanding dues. The government’s objective is to provide immediate financial support to rural families struggling with crop losses and water scarcity.
Extent of the Drought
According to the Maharashtra government, the state is currently facing drought conditions. A total of 305 talukas (sub-districts) across 34 districts have been declared drought-affected. Initially, the drought was declared in 265 talukas, a figure that was later increased to 305, covering approximately 75 per cent of the state. The drought has spread across all six revenue divisions of the state, notably affecting districts in Marathwada, Vidarbha, North Maharashtra, and the Pune division.
The Maharashtra government is also providing several other relief measures to farmers affected by the drought, including a moratorium on the recovery of crop loans, concessions on electricity bills, arrangements for water supply, and direct financial assistance. Meanwhile, the state government’s announcement to provide financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to farmers ahead of Diwali is being viewed as a significant form of support.
CM visited drought-affected areas.
Last month, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis toured drought-affected regions. He had indicated that relief measures for the farmers suffering in these areas would be announced soon. Furthermore, he made it clear that the state government would not wait for assistance from the Centre, but would instead provide immediate relief to farmers in the affected regions. The announcement of Rs 5,000 in financial aid is a step taken in this direction.
