Modi assures Shinde of Centre support as Maharashtra grapples with severe drought

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Monday, focusing on Maharashtra's worsening drought situation and the Centre's support mechanisms. The hour-long meeting covered critical issues including water availability, fodder supply and crop damage assessments, according to officials accompanying Shinde.

Modi sought detailed updates on the drought's impact across Maharashtra and assured the state of federal assistance in tackling the crisis. Shinde expressed confidence that substantial support would be forthcoming from the Centre to mitigate the agricultural emergency.

The meeting assumes significance as Maharashtra faces an unprecedented drought affecting 265 of its 358 talukas—approximately 74 per cent of the state—following a severe rainfall deficit. The state government officially declared the drought situation on September 26, triggering relief and rehabilitation measures.

The high-level engagement between the two leaders underscores the gravity of Maharashtra's agricultural distress and the need for coordinated central and state-level intervention. The discussions are expected to facilitate expedited release of drought relief funds and implementation of water management initiatives across the affected regions.