Maharashtra to fast-track drought relief, seeks Centre support

Maharashtra's state government will move swiftly to address the drought crisis affecting farmers across the region, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicating that a formal drought mitigation notification would be issued within 72 hours. The announcement underscores the administration's commitment to providing relief measures independently, even as it simultaneously pursues financial assistance from the Union government.

The early notification is expected to enable rapid implementation of support schemes for farmers experiencing distress due to inadequate rainfall. By not delaying action pending central approval, the state aims to minimise hardship during a critical agricultural season and demonstrate administrative responsiveness to rural communities facing livelihood challenges.

While Maharashtra proceeds with its own mitigation measures, the government will continue to engage with New Delhi to secure additional central funding for relief and rehabilitation programmes. The dual approach reflects efforts to balance immediate local action with longer-term assistance required to support the state's agricultural sector through the drought period.