Won't leave farmers alone, Shinde tells ministers to visit fields for damage surveys

A cabinet meeting held in view of drought-like conditions in Maharashtra discussed in detail how to help farmers. After the meeting, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde said officials have been directed to immediately conduct panchnama surveys of damaged crops. Shinde also said chief minister Devendra Fadnavis will personally visit some areas to take stock of the situation.

Crops have been damaged in many places across the state due to lack of rainfall, leaving farmers in distress. In view of this, the government has begun taking swift steps to help farmers. It also emerged after the meeting that Fadnavis has directed that panchnama surveys begin in the affected areas.

Eknath Shinde said the farmer is the "annadata" or provider of food, and has the first claim on the government treasury. He said it is the government's responsibility to bring farmers out of this crisis. Shinde also recalled that the government has previously helped during other crises, including excess rainfall.

Shinde said officials will go directly to farmers' fields to assess the damage, and panchnama surveys will be conducted accordingly. It also emerged after the meeting that a separate sub-committee has been formed to deal with the drought.

Shinde said he has informed Shiv Sena ministers to visit their respective areas. He has also directed that public hearings, or "janata darbars", be held village by village to understand farmers' problems.

Shinde said the government will also plan for the drinking water shortage and the availability of fodder for animals. He made clear that while the government will continue to provide help, the Shiv Sena will also take on some responsibility to assist farmers.

Shinde said ministers and the administration must go directly into the field to deal with the drought situation. He said priority will be given to panchnama surveys, water and fodder issues in the affected areas. Shinde said farmers will not be left to fend for themselves.

Meanwhile, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said the special committee formed to deal with the drought has been given cabinet powers, and the situation will be reviewed regularly.