Maha govt approves Rs445 crore relief for disaster-hit farmers
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Relief and rehabilitation minister Makarand Jadhav-Patil informed the state assembly that the remaining funds would be transferred within the next few days.
"Farmers are the backbone of our economy and govt will never abandon them in times of crisis," Jadhav-Patil said, assuring that compensation would meet the standards set by the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). He said that immediate assistance is provided following field inspections and damage reports, as mandated under relief protocols.
The announcement followed a legislative discussion initiated by MLA Siddharth Kharat, with contributions from multiple legislators across party lines. The discussion highlighted crop and property damage due to extreme weather, particularly in Buldhana's Mehkar, Lonar, Chikhli, and Sindkhed Raja talukas, where rainfall above 65mm impacted over 50,000 hectares of soyabean, cotton, pulses, and vegetables crops.
At least 73 houses were partially damaged, and two fatalities were reported.
Jadhav-Patil assured that damage assessments were underway, and relief would be distributed as soon as reports were submitted. He reiterated that the govt would act swiftly to extend aid and revive rural livelihoods affected by erratic climate events.
Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, addressing the House, underscored the govt's readiness to discuss all issues concerning the state's farmers.
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"We are fully aware of their hardships and are committed to addressing them. This govt is not afraid of accountability or debate," he said. "Farming is the spine of our economy. Protecting farmers' interests is a top policy priority."
Pawar emphasised that no crisis, be it climatic or economic, would see the state turning its back on farmers. He assured that the govt would extend support under all circumstances, reiterating that the current administration considers itself "a govt of farmers, for farmers."
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