Maharashtra Announces ₹31,628 Crore Relief for Flood-Hit Farmers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a substantial relief package of ₹31,628 crore on October 7, 2025, aimed at assisting farmers devastated by heavy rains and flooding. The adverse weather events primarily impacted the Marathwada region and surrounding areas, leading to significant loss of life, property, and agricultural production. The announcement came during a press conference with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.

The Chief Minister highlighted that over 68 lakh hectares of crops were severely damaged due to the recent floods. In his address, he stated, “We are going to give ₹47,000 as cash compensation and ₹3,00,000 as crop compensation through NREGA.” He also specified that ₹17,675 crore would be allocated as crop compensation, with an additional ₹10,000 offered to aid irrigated farmers whose crops were lost. “In a way, the compensation for our irrigated farmers is going to be around ₹32,500,” he added.

Fadnavis further explained the extensive damage caused by the rains, noting that land erosion hindered the cultivation of future Rabi crops in affected regions. He reported that a total of 1 crore 43 lakh 52 thousand hectares of land was cultivated in Maharashtra, with crops on 68 lakh 79 thousand 756 hectares now damaged. The relief efforts will extend to 29 districts, 253 talukas, and 2,059 mandals.

In addition to crop compensation, the government will assist in rebuilding homes destroyed by the floods. Fadnavis confirmed that support would be provided under the PM Awas Yojana. Shop owners who incurred losses will receive ₹50,000 each, and compensation for livestock damage will also be addressed.

Previously, the state government had announced a relief package of ₹1,339 crore to help farmers whose crops were damaged during July and August of this year.

The ongoing flood situation has also prompted the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to cancel a planned 10% seasonal fare hike for bus services. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that the fare increase, typically implemented for the festive season, would not go ahead as the government seeks to alleviate the burden on residents affected by the floods. The fare hike was scheduled for Diwali travel, from October 15 to November 5, but will now be withdrawn.

The government’s swift response aims to address the widespread effects of the natural disaster, ensuring that farmers and affected communities receive the necessary support to recover and rebuild.