Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 11: The Maharashtra government on Friday announced a series of relief measures for farmers impacted by heavy rains across 34 districts, including rationalisation of cooperative loans and suspension of recovery for one year.

A government resolution (GR) stated that 347 tehsils suffered widespread damage to crops, farmland, houses, livestock, and human lives. The relief package also includes waiving exam fees for students of Classes 10 and 12 in the affected areas.

According to the state agriculture department, crops on 65 lakh hectares were damaged between June and September, with Marathwada and adjoining regions bearing the brunt of September floods.

Earlier this week, the government had announced a Rs 31,628 crore compensation package covering crop losses, life and property, soil erosion, hospitalisation, ex-gratia, damage to houses, shops, and cattle sheds, along with direct financial support to farmers and concessions similar to those provided during drought-like conditions.