Both Deputy CMs miss Fadnavis's drought review meeting, sparking talk in political circles

The state has not received the expected rainfall this year, creating drought-like conditions in many parts of Maharashtra. Deficient rain is causing heavy damage to crops and has put farmers in serious distress. Against this backdrop, an important meeting was held on Sunday (October 11) under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to review the drought situation.

Neither of the state's two Deputy Chief Ministers, Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, attended the meeting. This has set off discussion in political circles. Questions are being asked about why both were absent when a meeting on a grave issue such as drought was being held. There is also talk of whether the two had not been invited. However, no official information has yet emerged on whether they were invited.

Ministers Girish Mahajan, Dattatray Bharne and Makarand Patil were present at the meeting. The head of the central drought assessment team, Union Joint Secretary Muktanand Agrawal, and other members of the team were also present. The meeting discussed the severity of the drought in the state, crop losses, water scarcity and the status of relief.

Crops have been damaged in many districts because of insufficient rain. Reduced availability of water has added to farmers' difficulties. The state government is reviewing various remedial measures.

Taking note of the severity of the drought, the Centre had sent an 11-member inter-ministerial team to Maharashtra. The team inspected drought-hit areas of Marathwada, Vidarbha and Western Maharashtra. The inspection found heavy damage to soyabean, cotton and tur crops. It was also noted that in some areas crop yields had fallen to almost zero. Concern was also expressed over drinking water, fodder for livestock and the falling levels of water reservoirs.

To provide relief to farmers, the state government has submitted a proposal to the Centre for interim assistance of Rs 17,500 crore. Chief Minister Fadnavis had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and sought assistance. After the central team's report arrives, the state government will submit a more detailed proposal. A further decision on financial assistance from the Centre is expected on the basis of that report.

With both Deputy Chief Ministers absent from the meeting, questions have been raised about coordination within the Mahayuti government. However, there has been no official confirmation so far that the two were not invited or that they are displeased. It would therefore be premature to conclude from their absence that there are differences within the Mahayuti. Attention is now on whether the Chief Minister's Office or the Deputy Chief Ministers concerned offer any clarification.