Maharashtra Extends Borewell Deadline to Save Fruit Orchards

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Extends Borewell Drilling Deadline to December 15 to Protect Drought-Hit Fruit Orchards

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced an extension of the borewell drilling deadline to December 15 in selected drought-affected areas to help farmers protect their fruit orchards. The decision offers important relief to farmers facing water shortages and the risk of losing years of agricultural investment. However, the statewide ban on borewell drilling will continue in other areas.

Maharashtra Government Grants Special Relief for Fruit Orchard Farmers

The state government has introduced this temporary relaxation to protect fruit orchards that require 10 to 12 years to reach full maturity and start providing good returns. A shortage of water during this important growth period could cause serious financial losses for farmers.

Announcing the decision, Fadnavis said the government wants to prevent long-term damage to orchards and support farmers dealing with drought conditions. Under the revised arrangement, farmers in selected areas where fruit orchards are at risk can drill new borewells until December 15.

He clarified that this is a limited relaxation and does not mean the drilling restrictions have been removed across Maharashtra.

Government Focuses on Water Availability Until May 2027

The Chief Minister said the government is working to ensure sufficient water for vulnerable fruit orchards until May 2027. The aim is to help farmers protect their trees through the coming summer months and reduce the possibility of crop losses.

He also clarified that there is no restriction on flashing existing borewells. However, farmers who want to deepen their existing borewells must obtain the required government permission.

Drought Creates Challenges for Orange, Cotton and Soybean Farmers

During his interaction with farmers, Fadnavis highlighted the serious impact of drought on orange orchards, cotton fields and soybean crops. He shared his experience of visiting a farmer's family whose agricultural activities had been badly affected by the shortage of water.

The family had three landholders, all of whom had received benefits under the farm loan waiver scheme. The Chief Minister appreciated their determination to overcome the difficult situation and said their courage offered valuable lessons about the strength and resilience of Maharashtra's farming community.

He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for appreciating his interaction with the farmer's family. Fadnavis said the Prime Minister's continued focus on farmers, women and persons with disabilities encourages the state government to give greater attention to their concerns.

Maharashtra Accelerates Irrigation Projects With ₹15,000 Crore Funding Plan

The Chief Minister also highlighted the state's efforts to strengthen irrigation infrastructure and improve long-term water availability for agriculture.

According to Fadnavis, the government has completed 97 pending irrigation projects and approved the remaining projects. Maharashtra plans to raise a loan of ₹15,000 crore to complete the outstanding work.

These irrigation projects are expected to provide significant support to farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada, where reliable water resources are essential for agricultural development.

Solar Fencing Plan to Improve Safety for Farmers Near Forest Areas

Fadnavis also discussed the possibility of expanding solar fencing facilities to protect farmers living near forest areas. The proposed arrangements aim to reduce the risk of attacks by wild animals, including gaurs, and provide greater safety to farming communities.

The Chief Minister said the government is also reviewing suggestions raised by local farmers and village sarpanches during recent discussions. Their concerns covered agriculture, roads, lakes and other infrastructure requirements. The administration will examine these demands and take necessary action, including through existing government welfare and development schemes.

The extension of the borewell drilling deadline is expected to provide timely support to farmers in selected drought-hit areas. Along with irrigation projects and proposed safety measures, the government's initiatives aim to protect agricultural investments, improve water access and strengthen rural livelihoods across Maharashtra.