Drinking Water Will Remain the Top Priority
Dharashiv, September 23, 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited Karajkheda in Tuljapur taluka to take stock of the drought situation and assess the damage caused to crops. Interacting directly with farmers, he assured them that the state government stands firmly with them and that there will be no shortage of funds for drought-relief measures.
During his visit, Chief Minister Fadnavis inspected the farm of farmer Bali Bhosle and assessed the damage to sugarcane and soybean crops. He gathered information from farmers about the sowing dates, amount and duration of rainfall, crop growth and the expected impact on production.
The inspection revealed extensive damage to soybean crops, while the growth of sugarcane has also been severely affected. The Chief Minister said the government would provide immediate assistance to farmers based on the assessment of crop losses.
Farmers Meet CM Fadnavis
As the Chief Minister visited the drought-affected area, several farmers came forward and shared their concerns. They spoke about crop losses caused by inadequate rainfall, the expected decline in production, investments made during the season and the impact of the crisis on their families.
CM Fadnavis patiently listened to the farmers and assured them that the government would stand by them during this difficult period. He also assured that the education of farmers' children would not be disrupted because of the financial crisis.
Drinking Water First Priority
CM Fadnavis said that every drop of available water must be used carefully during the drought. Given the current situation, saving crops has become difficult. Therefore, available water must first be reserved for drinking purposes.
He said that after meeting drinking-water requirements, any remaining water could be used for other purposes.
Relief Through Crop Insurance and Financial Assistance
The Chief Minister said that the next four to five months could be challenging and that everyone would have to cooperate and work together to overcome the situation.
He said the government is taking several measures to support farmers. Crop-loan waiver-related work is underway, crop-cutting experiments are being conducted and crop-insurance assistance will be provided.
Arrangements will also be made for drinking water and fodder for livestock. Preparations will be made for the Rabi season as and when water becomes available.
No Shortage of Funds
CM Fadnavis said that decisions have been taken to provide relief to farmers, including measures related to loans and electricity bills. Direct financial assistance will also be deposited into farmers' bank accounts.
He further said that necessary measures would be taken to ensure that farmer families do not face a food crisis because of the loss of agricultural income.
The government is preparing a comprehensive plan covering crop damage, drinking water, livestock fodder, crop insurance, financial assistance and food grains.
Standing With Farmers
During his inspection at Karajkheda, CM Fadnavis interacted directly with farmers and said that although the crisis is serious, it can be overcome through unity and mutual cooperation.
He reiterated that the government would continue to stand firmly with farmers and provide all necessary assistance to deal with the drought situation.
Several senior officials and public representatives accompanied Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the visit, including Guardian Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Public Works Minister Shivendraraje Bhosale, MP Omprakash Rajenimbalkar, Zilla Parishad President Archana Patil, MLAs Basavraj Patil, Ranajagjitsinh Patil and Abhimanyu Pawar, former MLA Dnyanraj Chougule, District Collector Kirti Kiran Pujar, Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer Priyamvada Mhadalkar, Superintendent of Police Ritu Khokhar and Sub-Divisional Officer Omkar Deshmukh, along with officials from the concerned departments.
