Relief Announced for Declares 265 Tehsils Drought-Affected

The Maharashtra government has announced a major relief package for farmers and rural families as drought conditions continue to affect several parts of the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared 265 out of 358 tehsils as drought-affected, allowing special relief measures to be implemented across these areas.

The decision is expected to support farmers, agricultural workers, students, livestock owners and other rural residents facing difficulties because of water shortages and weaker crop conditions.

Maharashtra Farmers to Get Relief From Loan Repayments

Farmers in the drought-affected tehsils will receive relief on several financial obligations. The government has decided to waive land revenue and restructure eligible crop loans.

The recovery of agricultural loans will also be kept on hold, giving farmers more time to manage their finances during the difficult period. These measures are aimed at reducing immediate financial pressure on farming families.

Relief Announced on Agricultural Electricity Bills

Electricity costs are another major concern for farmers during a drought. The government has announced additional support for agricultural pump users.

Electricity bills for agricultural pumps with capacity up to 7.5 horsepower are already waived under the existing arrangement. Now, farmers using higher-capacity agricultural pumps in drought-affected areas will also receive electricity bill subsidies.

The government has further directed that electricity connections used for agricultural pumps in villages declared drought-affected should not be disconnected.

Drinking Water and Fodder Arrangements Planned

Water availability remains a key priority in drought-hit areas. The government has decided to arrange drinking water tankers wherever required to ensure rural communities have access to water.

Measures will also be taken to provide food grains to farmers and agricultural laborers. Special arrangements for cattle fodder and livestock drinking water will also be made in areas facing shortages.

The administration will continue planning these arrangements based on existing government guidelines for drinking water and livestock needs.

Students to Receive Examination Fee Relief

The drought relief measures also cover students living in affected areas. School and college students in the declared drought-affected tehsils will receive an exemption from examination fees.

The government also plans to create more employment opportunities in rural areas by relaxing certain rules under the Employment Guarantee Scheme. This could provide additional work opportunities for people whose incomes have been affected by the drought.

Maharashtra to Expand Water Conservation Work

Long-term water security is another focus of the government's drought response. Large-scale water conservation projects will be started in drought-affected areas.

These projects are intended to improve water availability and strengthen local water resources so communities can better manage future shortages.

Crop Damage Assessment to Begin Immediately

District administrations have been directed to speed up the assessment of crop conditions in the affected areas. District Magistrates have been instructed to complete the required panchnama process and prepare detailed records of crop damage.

Officials will collect photographs and GPS-based information from affected locations. The data will help authorities identify impacted crops and areas and support further decisions on drought relief.

With 265 tehsils now covered under the drought-affected category, the government’s measures bring relief across several areas, including loan repayment support, electricity bill assistance, drinking water, fodder, student fee exemptions, rural employment and water conservation work.