The state cabinet approved a compensation package of Rs.10000 crore on Wednesday for farmers who lost crops owing to severe rains between June and October this year.
The compensation provided by the state is more than that offered by the Centre under the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF). While the state has announced Rs.10000 per hectare for non-irrigated land, the amount required by the Centre is Rs.6800. In addition, the state provides Rs.15000 in assistance per hectare for irrigated land, whilst the Centre offers Rs.13500. A relief of Rs.25000 would be provided for perennial crops. A farmer can receive compensation for up to two hectares.
According to officials, the monetary relief offered by the state exceeds the prescribed norms under the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF). When Cyclone Nisarg destroyed coastal districts in 2019, the state government began giving more compensation.
During this monsoon, almost 55 lakh hectares of cultivated area — over 40% of the total in the state — were devastated by severe rains caused by cyclone Gulab in September. The majority of the damaged area is in Marathwada, which lost nearly 20 lakh hectares.
Dadaji Bhuse, the state agricultural minister, stated that the state has chosen to assist farmers without waiting for the Centre's decision.
"This decision would assist farmers who have been adversely impacted by natural catastrophes," Bhuse added.
According to officials, the state issued a similar package of Rs.11500 crore in August following the massive devastation caused in the coastal regions, particularly Raigad and Ratnagiri. According to officials, a large portion of this package was preserved for emergency assistance and long-term mitigating measures. "The Rs.10000 crore announced by the government will comprise the agricultural support package announced in August," an official said.
Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathan Issued a Warning:
Politics is also going on in Maharashtra on the issue of compensation for crop loss of farmers. Raju Shetty, leader of Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathan, had warned the state government that:
“if the Dussehra of farmers went into darkness, then your Diwali would not be sweet. There has been heavy damage in Marathwada due to heavy rains. Instead of helping the farmers, the Chief Minister only gives speeches."
Speech does not fill the stomach of farmers. Therefore, the Chief Minister should immediately help the farmers.”
