Maharashtra announces ‘largest ever’ ₹31,628 crore relief package for flood-hit farmers
The Maharashtra government has unveiled its largest-ever ₹31,628 crore relief package for farmers affected by severe floods and heavy rainfall across multiple districts. The package aims to restore agricultural productivity, support livestock owners, and rebuild damaged rural infrastructure.
In a major step to assist flood-hit farmers, the Maharashtra government has announced a record-breaking ₹31,628 crore relief package. This initiative, described as the “largest ever” in the state’s history, aims to rehabilitate over 60 lakh farmers affected by floods and heavy rains in the months of September and early October. The announcement came after weeks of damage assessment across major agrarian districts, including Solapur, Pune, Nashik, and Marathwada.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the relief fund will be disbursed in phases, prioritizing small and marginal farmers who suffered the most. The package includes direct financial compensation, subsidies for replanting, and assistance for repairing farm infrastructure. Additionally, special grants will support dairy farmers, poultry owners, and agricultural workers whose livelihoods were disrupted due to waterlogging and crop failure.
According to preliminary reports, heavy monsoon rains and flash floods destroyed crops on over 45 lakh hectares of farmland. Key crops such as soyabean, cotton, and paddy witnessed significant damage, while fruit orchards in Nashik and Jalgaon were severely affected. The state government has directed district collectors to ensure a swift survey and transparent fund distribution through digital channels to prevent delays and corruption.
The relief package also focuses on long-term sustainability. Funds have been allocated for strengthening embankments, improving irrigation channels, and creating rainwater harvesting structures to reduce flood impact in future. The state is also planning a collaboration with agricultural universities to study the impact of floods on soil fertility and recommend restoration measures for damaged farmland.
While the announcement has been welcomed by many farmer associations, opposition leaders have raised concerns about the adequacy and implementation of the package. They argue that financial relief must be complemented with systemic reforms to prevent recurring losses. However, the government maintains that this historic package reflects its firm commitment to rebuild Maharashtra’s rural economy and restore farmer confidence.
