Drought declared in 10 Pune talukas; farmers get Rs 5,000 advance aid before Diwali

Drought has been declared in ten talukas of Pune district after rainfall was lower this year under the influence of El Nino. Kharif crops were damaged by the deficient rain, and farmers have faced a cash crunch.

Considering the situation, the state government decided to give each eligible farmer an advance aid of Rs 5,000 on the basis of crop-loss panchnamas. Under this, the amount was deposited in farmers' bank accounts before Diwali. The aid, received at festival time, has brought some relief to farmers in distress.

Navnath Nanasaheb Balgude, a farmer from Umbarwadi Modve in Baramati taluka, said he received the Rs 5,000 advance aid after the drought panchnama. Suresh Dattatray Suryawanshi, a farmer from Sadobachi Wadi, said his soybean crop was lost because of the low rainfall. He said that with Rs 5,000 reaching his account after the panchnamas were completed, he had support in a difficult time.

Kisan Rakhmaji Londhe, a farmer from Eklahare in Ambegaon taluka, also received the advance aid before Diwali. He expressed satisfaction that the amount reached his account on time despite the crop loss.

Santosh Arun Tadge, a farmer from Bori Pardhi in Daund taluka, had sown bajra this year. The crop was damaged because of the low rain. In line with the government's decision, Rs 5,000 in advance aid reached his account too. He said timely help in a difficult time had brought relief.

Not all farmers are fully satisfied with the amount. Rajendra Maruti Pingle, a farmer from Pinglewasti in Baramati taluka, said he received Rs 5,000 for the loss of his maize crop. According to him, the aid is less than the loss suffered, and he expressed hope that the remaining compensation would be paid soon.

Receiving the money before Diwali helped farmers meet festival expenses, daily needs and farming costs. The severity of the financial strain caused by the drought has eased to some extent. The aid has been given to eligible farmers on the basis of panchnamas of crop losses.