CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a record-breaking ₹31,628 crore relief package aimed at assisting over 60 lakh farmers devastated by severe floods and heavy rainfall. This unprecedented initiative is the largest farmer aid package in the state’s history, surpassing previous records set by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
The floods have inflicted significant damage across 29 districts and 273 talukas, with approximately 68.7 lakh hectares of kharif crops destroyed—nearly half of the state’s total sown area. The relief package includes ₹6,175 crore under National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) norms, offering compensation ranging from ₹8,500 to ₹22,500 per hectare, depending on crop type. An additional ₹6,500 crore will be allocated to ensure higher payouts, potentially reaching up to ₹32,500 per hectare.
Farmers with crop insurance will receive up to ₹50,000 per hectare, while those with eroded land will be provided ₹47,000 per hectare in cash and ₹3 lakh through the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) scheme, totaling around ₹3.5 lakh per hectare. The package also includes funds for soil restoration, well repairs, rural infrastructure, and educational fee waivers. Additionally, ₹10,000 crore will be allocated for rebuilding rural roads and structures
Despite the substantial financial backing, opposition parties have criticized the package, labeling it as inadequate and symbolic rather than substantial. They argue that the compensation offered falls short of the actual expenditures incurred by farmers and is less generous than aid provided under the previous government
The government has promised a comprehensive farm loan waiver, which will be addressed after the urgent relief is distributed. This announcement underscores the state’s commitment to supporting its agricultural community during this challenging period.
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