Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 6: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday and discussed the severe drought situation in the state, seeking Central assistance for affected farmers.

During the hour-long meeting, Modi sought details on water availability, agricultural conditions, crop damage and fodder availability for livestock, Shinde said. The Prime Minister assured Maharashtra of the Centre’s support, and a Central team is expected to visit drought-hit areas of the state.

The meeting came after the Maharashtra government declared drought in 265 of the state’s 358 talukas, accounting for nearly 74 per cent of the state, amid a significant rainfall deficit. The drought has affected agricultural activity and raised concerns over water and fodder availability.

Shinde said the state government had placed its demands for Central assistance before the Prime Minister and expressed confidence that substantial support would be provided. He said the government would not hold back assistance to farmers facing distress.

He noted that farmers currently receive Rs 12,000 annually under the Centre’s Shetkari Samman Yojana and Maharashtra’s Namo Shetkari Yojana, with Rs 6,000 provided under each scheme. Shinde said the government was committed to providing further assistance in view of the drought situation.

The drought has also intensified concerns over Maharashtra’s water resources. The state government has ordered a minimum 10 per cent water cut across urban local bodies from October 16 amid reduced rainfall and limited water availability. Drinking water requirements have been given priority, followed by the needs of livestock and fodder before water is allocated for irrigation.

The state has also begun assessing crop losses in drought-affected areas. Reports indicate that soybean and cotton crops in Marathwada and Vidarbha have been among those badly affected, while sugarcane cultivation has also suffered in parts of Marathwada and western Maharashtra.

The Maharashtra government has initiated drought-relief measures, including crop-loss assessments and other assistance for affected farmers. State Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne has said the government is working to provide financial assistance to farmers before Diwali, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said relief would be provided across the declared drought-hit talukas.

Following his meeting with Modi, Shinde said the government would ensure that farmers receive the required assistance during the crisis.