Why has Maharashtra declared drought in 265 talukas and what do farmers get? | Explained

Maharashtra has declared drought in 265 of its 358 talukas. From June 1 to September 26, the State received 798.2 mm of rain against an average of 970.9 mm, a deficit of 18%. Farmers, agricultural labourers and students in these talukas become eligible for twelve measures without a separate application. Payment for crop losses will come through another resolution after surveys end. The opposition has sought that drought be declared in several other affected talukas too, and relief be given before Diwali.

On September 26, the government issued a resolution under the Drought Management Code, 2016, covering 265 talukas in 32 districts. The Agriculture Commissioner had reviewed the kharif 2026 season and reported rainfall shortfalls since June. Trigger-1 of the Code is now in force. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has told District Collectors to begin panchnamas at once. Ninety-three talukas are outside the list.