Drought declared in 265 talukas across Maha, covering 75pc of state: BJP

Mumbai, Sep 26 (UNI) The Maharashtra government has declared drought in 265 of the state's 358 talukas, covering nearly 75 per cent of the state, BJP state chief spokesperson Navnath Ban said on Saturday.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP state office, Ban said the drought declaration would provide relief to farmers in drought-affected areas, particularly in Dharashiv, Latur and Solapur districts, where the situation was serious. He said the measures announced by the government include concessions in land revenue and restructuring of crop loans.

Recovery of agriculture-related loans would also be suspended. According to Ban, relief would also be provided on electricity dues for agricultural pumps above 7.5 horsepower in drought-affected areas, while power connections to agricultural pumps in villages declared drought-hit would not be disconnected. He said examination fees of school and college students in the affected areas would be waived. Rules under the Employment Guarantee Scheme would be relaxed to generate additional employment opportunities, while drinking water tankers would be deployed wherever required.

Ban said the government had also directed district administrations to ensure adequate supply of foodgrains to agricultural labourers and make arrangements for fodder camps wherever necessary due to shortages of fodder and drinking water for livestock. He said the government would also undertake large-scale water conservation works in the drought-affected regions.

Referring to the water conservation works undertaken under the Jalyukt Shivar programme after the 2016 drought, Ban said efforts would be made to complete remaining works and address recurring drought conditions in Marathwada and Vidarbha. He said the government would take steps to ensure continuity of essential services, including drinking water supply and electricity, in drought-affected areas.

UNI SP SAS