World · India Bureau
Maharashtra farmers suspend march to Mumbai after drought relief pledge
Over 12,000 farmers called off their march from Igatpuri after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis promised to address drought relief measures and pending payments. The government also agreed to review the farmers' demands.
LSN India ·
A planned agricultural march to Mumbai has been suspended after the Maharashtra government offered assurances on relief measures and outstanding payments to drought-affected farmers. The contingent of over 12,000 farmers, which had mobilised from Igatpuri, decided to halt their advance following discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The farmers had initiated the march to press their demands for drought relief and settlement of pending dues. The suspension came after Fadnavis provided written assurances addressing the primary concerns raised by the farming community affected by drought conditions.
As part of the agreement, the state government committed to reviewing the comprehensive list of demands submitted by the farmers. Officials indicated that the administration would prioritise the processing of outstanding payments and explore additional relief options available under existing drought mitigation schemes.
The decision to call off the march represents a significant development in the ongoing dialogue between the state government and agricultural stakeholders. Farmers' organisations indicated they would monitor the implementation of the promised measures in the coming weeks.