Maharashtra Drought and Agricultural Impact

Drought Situation in Maharashtra and India

Current Conditions:

• Drought Declaration: Maharashtra has declared a drought in approximately 75% of its tehsils, with possible impacts worse than the 1972 famine.
• Rainfall Deficit: India reports rainfall 11.9% below the historical average for the monsoon season (June 1 - September 27).
• Affected Regions: 23 out of 36 meteorological subdivisions have over 10% cumulative rainfall deficit. Hardest-hit areas include:
  • Southern states
  • Marathwada and Vidarbha in Maharashtra
  • Rajasthan, Saurashtra and Kutch
  • Northeast India

Meteorological Insights:

• El Niño: Currently in a strong phase, predicted to escalate to "very strong" from October to February.
• Impact on Future Harvests: Expected adverse effects on kharif crop yields and significant risks for the upcoming rabi (winter-spring) season.

Agricultural Consequences:

• Water Resources Depletion: Deficient rainfall leading to dwindling water in wells, ponds, and reservoirs, which may adversely affect rabi harvests.
• Administration Response:
  • Activation of the Drought Management Code for crop loss assessment.
  • Concessions include waivers of land revenue and restructuring or pausing agricultural loan recoveries for affected farmers.

Government Schemes and Economic Measures

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Central scheme aimed at providing indemnity payouts to farmers; effectiveness in the current drought context will be evaluated.
• VB-G Ram G Schemes: Focused on expeditious rural relief works.
• Import Duty Cuts:
  • Reduction of crude palm and soybean oil duties from 16.5% to 11%.
  • Sunflower oil duties cut to 5.5%.
  • Duty-free imports permitted for arhar and urad, with calls for similar measures for other pulses (yellow peas, chana, masoor).

Environmental Impact & Future Projections

• Rabi Harvest Risks: Weaker climatic conditions expected to shorten winter durations and raise temperatures, contributing to lower crop yields.

Summary

The drought declared in Maharashtra and the broader rainfall deficits in India are critical issues that may disrupt the agricultural sector, raising the need for effective management strategies at both state and central levels. The ongoing El Niño phenomenon further complicates conditions, signalling challenges ahead for both kharif and rabi crops. Assured government support through policy measures is essential to mitigate economic impacts on farmers.