NCP(SP) questions CM Devendra Fadnavi govt over drought relief
“The government has declared drought in 265 out of 358 talukas and yet, in the very same order, it says compensation for the farmers’ actual losses will come later, after further paperwork and survey. He also referred to NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar’s September 16 letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis , in which Pawar had sought an immediate relief package of at least Rs 50,000 per hectare along with other measures. “Every year we see the same sequence — a GR is issued, some relief is announced, and the real compensation is pushed to after the survey.
MUMBAI: The NCP(SP) on Friday questioned the Maharashtra government over its decision to declare drought under “Trigger-1” in 265 talukas, saying the relief announced so far largely comprises concessions and administrative measures, while actual crop-loss compensation has been deferred. Farmers whose crops have already failed cannot survive on promises of a future GR,” Tapase said. By then, the season is over and farmers have already borrowed money at high interest just to survive,” Tapase said.
Government Resolution on Crop Loss Compensation Sparks Demands for Timelines
Mahesh Tapase, a senior leader of the NCP(SP), has called for the government to establish a clear timeline for completing assessments and distributing crop-loss compensation across all 265 talukas. This demand follows the government resolution issued by the Relief and Rehabilitation Department on September 25, which outlines various support measures for affected farmers.
The resolution includes provisions such as exemptions from land revenue, restructuring of crop loans, deferment of loan recoveries, and waivers for examination fees. Additionally, it offers concessions on agricultural electricity bills and relaxations in employment guarantee scheme norms. Farmers will also receive support in the form of water tankers, and arrangements for fodder and drinking water.
Tapase emphasized the need for the government to clarify when farmers can expect to see compensation deposited directly into their bank accounts.