The Maharashtra government has declared drought in 265 talukas across the state, citing a deficit rainfall and resulting crop losses. A government resolution issued on September 25, 2026, confirmed the drought conditions based on rainfall deficit and other factors since June.
District collectors are instructed to conduct field assessments of crop damage, including photographic evidence and GPS-tagged records. The declaration impacts large parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha, regions known for agrarian distress, as well as drought-affected areas in northern and western Maharashtra.
Among the most affected districts are Yavatmal, Jalgaon, Nanded, Amravati, and Nagpur. Crop losses have impacted soybean, maize, and cotton. Agriculture department officials estimate at least a quarter of standing crops were damaged in Marathwada due to a prolonged dry spell.
Maharashtra is the second state after Karnataka to declare drought. Nationally, over 51.2 percent of India’s land area was under dry or drought conditions as of September 23, with Maharashtra experiencing drought in 84.1 percent of its area. El Niño is expected to persist through February 2027.
Relief measures announced include concessions on land revenue, crop loans, electricity bills for agricultural pumps, and waivers on examination fees. Drinking water supply and fodder arrangements are also included. Direct compensation for crop losses will be determined after completion of the assessment process.
Source: Down To Earth