The Central Government’s inter-ministerial team, which is visiting Maharashtra, has directed officials to complete crop-cutting experiments promptly to ensure that drought-affected farmers receive compensation before Diwali.
Muktanand Agrawal, head of the central team, issued the instructions during a review meeting at the Beed District Collector’s office. He stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of the drought situation, considering crop damage, rainfall, drinking water availability, groundwater levels, livestock fodder and employment opportunities. He also directed officials to verify crop assessment data against ground realities and expedite relief measures.
Around 8.25 lakh farmers across 1,353 villages in Beed district have been affected by drought. The team reviewed crop conditions, water scarcity, fodder availability and the distribution of assistance to farmers.
The central team also inspected drought-affected areas in Yavatmal district and reviewed crop damage, drinking water scarcity, groundwater levels, water availability and prospects for the Rabi season in Solapur district.
