Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde discusses Maharashtra drought with Prime Minister Modi

Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, held a one-hour discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, focusing on the state's drought that has been declared in 265 of its 358 talukas. Modi inquired about the status of water supplies, livestock fodder and the extent of crop losses, assuring Shinde of central government backing. Shinde noted that farmers currently receive Rs 12,000 annually—half from the Centre's Shetkari Samman Yojana and half from Maharashtra's Namo Shetkari Yojana—and stressed the need for additional relief.

He recalled assistance provided during the previous year's heavy rains and emphasized that the government would not withhold support when farmers are in distress. A central team is expected to visit the hardest-hit villages, and Shinde expressed confidence that the Centre will help prevent a bleak Diwali for farmers.