Mumbai: The Maharashtra government on Saturday declared 265 of the 358 talukas, or 74% of the state, to be drought-affected.
The prevailing situation in these sub-districts, across 34 of 36 districts, fulfils the Trigger-I (first alert) criterion under the Drought Management Code.
The decision, announced through a government notification, put nearly three-fourths of the state’s administrative blocks under drought measures as deficient rainfall has taken a toll on crops, livestock and water supplies.
This, despite ‘normal’ rainfall in the state as per IMD’s classification. As per IMD Hydromet data for June 1 to September 25, Maharashtra has an 18% rainfall deficit, which falls within the ‘normal’ range of anything between -19% and +19% of the long-period average.
But those statewide figures have hidden multiple differences from one region to another.
The state Agriculture Commissioner’s found shortfalls in multiple divisions.
The Devendra Fadnavis government announced a package of 12 measures and concessions for drought-affected farmers in drought-affected areas.
The concessions will be in land revenue, restructuring of crop loans, deferment of recovery of agriculture-related loans, and in current electricity bills for agricultural pumps.
Affected farmers will also get a waiver of examination fees for their school and college students, as well as relaxations in norms under NREGS works that provide rural employment.
The government has also ensured tankers will be deployed for drinking water, electricity to agricultural pumps will not be disconnected, food grains and fodder for livestock will be arranged, water will be provided for livestock, and more water conservation works will be undertaken.